Health disparities and Arab-American elders: Does intergenerational support buffer the inequality-health link?

This study examines whether social relations with a child influences health disparities among Arab-American elders living in the Detroit metropolitan area (Michigan). Data were drawn from 101 Arab-Americans aged 56 and above. Findings indicate that having less education links to lower self-ratings of health, more chronic illness, and less functional health. Those with lower levels of education who report an excellent relationship with their child have fewer functional limitations than those reporting less than excellent relationships. Elders with less education who perceive emotional support available from their child have fewer chronic illnesses than similar elders without such support. Findings suggest that among Arab-Americans with lower education levels, intergenerational relations seem to confer a potentially significant benefit.