HOPELESSNESS AMONG MIDDLE-AGED AND OLDER ADULTS: A COMPARISON OF NATIVE WHITES, NATIVE MINORITIES, AND IMMIGRANTS

Abstract Sense of hopelessness is closely linked to poor physical/mental health and elevated suicidal risk. The aging immigration processes put middle-aged older immigrants at a greater risk feeling hopeless. However, we know little about among this population. This study asks two questions: do have higher levels compared native-born Whites ethnic minorities? If so, what factors contribute such differences? Data was from the 2018 psychosocial assessment Health Retirement Study (N = 5,534). ANOVA used compare three groups middle-aged/older adults (50 yrs+): (n =3,603), minorities 1,209), 722). Linear regressions were examine association between nativity/race hopelessness, with five sets explanatory variables (i.e., SES, health, social support, engagement, neighborhood characteristics) entered in models individually then collectively. findings showed that had highest followed by native minorities, Whites. Controlling for each set respectively reduced group differences but not immigrants. When controlling all variables, no longer differed significantly Findings suggest immigrants’ multiple disadvantages personal, family, lives may their heightened hopelessness. Interventions are sorely needed protect against