ABSTRACT
The older adult population is rapidly increasing and becoming more ethnically diverse. Nationally, racial/ethnic health disparities are pervasive across both objective and subjective indicators. This chapter provides a snapshot of some of the most important issues to consider for older African Americans. It describes issues for health researchers and service providers to consider when working with older African Americans. The chapter focuses on the relationship between mental and physical health as well as religious beliefs and practices and caregiving. Culture encompasses a group's way of life, including the values, beliefs, traditions, language, symbols, and forms of social organization that are meaningful to the group. Given the disparities in mental health prevalence rates, assessment, and treatment outcomes among African American older adults, research is essential in promoting and protecting the health of older African Americans. A better understanding of racial and ethnic disparities would provide suitable prevention and intervention programs to African American elders with mental health disorders.
