Mental Wellbeing from the Perspective of Older People from Culturally Diverse Backgrounds

Improving mental health support for older people from culturally diverse backgrounds needs evidence about their understanding of wellbeing and how their perspectives are reflected in practice. This study examined the consistency of older people’s sense of mental wellbeing with the COMPAS-Wellbeing Scale. Qualitative data were collected from a multicultural peer support group. During COVID-19 lockdown, older people from over 14 countries and cultural backgrounds met weekly online. Data were from observations of group activities and interviews with 17 participants. The data about mental wellbeing were analysed against the COMPAS-W Scale that measures wellbeing across six dimensions (Composure, Own-worth, Mastery, Positivity, Achievement and Satisfaction). Older people’s perception of wellbeing was influenced by their sense of positive aging from adaptability and positivity; and their challenges from migration. They prioritised Composure and Positivity, as well as Achievement and Mastery. Their wellbeing was compromised by low Satisfaction in social relationships due to migration. They said the multicultural peer support enhanced their wellbeing. The digital arts-based activities crossed barriers of language, culture and location. The study confirmed the applicability of COMPAS-W Scale to the mental wellbeing of older migrants. Modifications could incorporate the influences of positive aging and migration. Well-facilitated multicultural peer support contributed to the mental wellbeing of older people from culturally diverse backgrounds.