ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the findings regarding the differences in service utilization between elderly US mainland-born Blacks and West Indian-born Blacks who live in New York City. The vast majority of both groups were found in the medium-low or lowest socioeconomic groups. US mainland-born Blacks perceived themselves to be in better health than West Indian-born Blacks. The chapter discusses demographic profile of participants, service utilization, and determinants of formal social service utilization. The vast majority of both groups were found in the medium-low or lowest socioeconomic groups. US mainland-born Blacks perceived themselves to be in better health than West Indian-born Blacks. For US-born participants, prior connection to the welfare system was important. Additionally, those who were living in New York City for a relatively shorter period of time were more likely to use services. West Indians, who were both older and claimed to be in poorer health, used health services at a significantly greater rate than their US-born counterparts.
