ABSTRACT

This chapter focuses on Russian or Soviet Jews, as many immigrated before the decline and fall of the Soviet Union. It explores the physical and psychological well-being of elderly Russian immigrants, and draws attention to the meaning of these dimensions through empirical research and theoretical perspectives. Russian immigrants and their elderly family members have a long tradition of migration to America based on their escape from religious domination and economic oppression. Russian immigrants are extremely serious when they describe the nature and quality of their friendships and relationships, which are primarily based on a deep sense of trust and unwavering and faithful loyalty. The goals of acculturation have become a priority due to the difficulties encountered with the first wave of Russian immigrants. The medical realities of aging and the stresses of immigration can result in hazardous problems for elderly Russian immigrants.