Assessing readiness : are homogeneous societies prepared for the needs of aging diaspora migrants?
Isik, Jac Alexis Yunus Emre (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025110527156
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025110527156
Tiivistelmä
This thesis aims to examine the readiness of institutional systems in culturally homogeneous societies when faced with the challenge of responding to the unique needs of aging diaspora migrant populations. The primary focus will be an examination of research from Westernized societies on the topic of aging diaspora migrants which will then be used to assess the readiness of Finnish systems. While Finland has an extensive welfare system and a reputation of upholding universal service provisions; questions arise when critically assessing the adequacy of these systems against the intersectional realities of older and aging migrant populations, whose experiences are shaped by cultural, language, migration history and personal identity.
The thesis applies a qualitative, literature-based methodology. Synthesizing
peer-reviewed studies, policy and case research studies between the published dates of 2017 to 2024, with some exceptions. The collated data was analyzed through a dual method combination of content and narrative analysis; and interpreted through five theoretical frameworks of Successful Aging Theory, Minority Stress Theory, Social Determinants of Health and Structural Racism in Healthcare, Intercultural Competence Framework and Intersectionality Theory. This process facilitated the identification of recurring thematic clusters which were then interpreted into themes.
The findings indicate a trend in Westernized and Nordic homogeneous societies that indicate that structural discrimination, digital exclusion, linguistic barriers and limited intercultural competences undermine equitable and equal access for aging diaspora migrant communities. Conversely, there is a pattern of resilience within families and communities, where they frequently compensate for institutional shortcomings. However, it should be noted that resilience is not a suitable substitute for systemic responsibility. The findings also suggest that when compared to other Westernized and Nordic homogeneous societies, Finland does have strong legislative foundation regarding eldercare. However, its systems remain partially underprepared for the diverse realities of older and aging migrants.
The thesis concludes that readiness in homogeneous societies cannot simply be measured by legislative frameworks and efficiency driven reforms alone. But also, by the extent by which cultural competencies and intersectional vulnerabilities are integrated and embedded into existing systems, while taking consideration to the lived experiences of marginalized communities. The thesis concludes by recommending intercultural training, targeted policy reforms, and the creation of inclusive service models designed to ensure that the complex needs of aging diaspora communities are met.
The thesis applies a qualitative, literature-based methodology. Synthesizing
peer-reviewed studies, policy and case research studies between the published dates of 2017 to 2024, with some exceptions. The collated data was analyzed through a dual method combination of content and narrative analysis; and interpreted through five theoretical frameworks of Successful Aging Theory, Minority Stress Theory, Social Determinants of Health and Structural Racism in Healthcare, Intercultural Competence Framework and Intersectionality Theory. This process facilitated the identification of recurring thematic clusters which were then interpreted into themes.
The findings indicate a trend in Westernized and Nordic homogeneous societies that indicate that structural discrimination, digital exclusion, linguistic barriers and limited intercultural competences undermine equitable and equal access for aging diaspora migrant communities. Conversely, there is a pattern of resilience within families and communities, where they frequently compensate for institutional shortcomings. However, it should be noted that resilience is not a suitable substitute for systemic responsibility. The findings also suggest that when compared to other Westernized and Nordic homogeneous societies, Finland does have strong legislative foundation regarding eldercare. However, its systems remain partially underprepared for the diverse realities of older and aging migrants.
The thesis concludes that readiness in homogeneous societies cannot simply be measured by legislative frameworks and efficiency driven reforms alone. But also, by the extent by which cultural competencies and intersectional vulnerabilities are integrated and embedded into existing systems, while taking consideration to the lived experiences of marginalized communities. The thesis concludes by recommending intercultural training, targeted policy reforms, and the creation of inclusive service models designed to ensure that the complex needs of aging diaspora communities are met.