McCaffrey Ruth G
Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA.
J Gerontol Nurs. 2007 Dec;33(12):13-8. doi: 10.3928/00989134-20071201-03.
The purpose of this article is to describe a project integrating Haitian older adults into a county senior center in Florida. This experience depicts the challenges faced by recently immigrated older adults in attempting to become part of a new community in a foreign country. Cultural issues, language barriers, transportation difficulties, and stereotypes were obstacles that had to be overcome to successfully welcome this new group and allow them to participate in the activities provided at the senior center. Implications for nurses include understanding cultural differences that are barriers for older adults attempting to access community services.