This study aimed to investigate the social inclusion of South Asian older people aged 65+ in the United Kingdom. It explored whether intergenerational practices could help the social integration of this social group.

Abstract

This research investigates social isolation among older South Asians in the Black Country, West Midlands. Literature reveals that social isolation can impact this community due to cultural and structural barriers to inclusion, creating challenges in accessing services and building community connections (Davey and Gordon, 2017; Age UK, 2018). 

Increasing research supports intergenerational approaches to enhance well-being, foster a sense of belonging, and boost self-confidence among socially isolated groups (Peters et al., 2021). This study highlights the importance of intergenerational activities for promoting social inclusion, particularly among South Asians aged 65+, by bridging generational gaps and enhancing community bonds through shared cultural exchanges and professional insights.

Preliminary findings are presented from the primary data collection of South Asian participants and community professionals, exploring their attitudes toward intergenerational initiatives and perceived benefits, focusing on barriers to inclusion. This paper aims to contribute insights to shape future community inclusion initiatives and support models that address isolation and enhance the social integration of older South Asians in the UK.

Keywords: Social isolation, South Asian, Culture, Communities, Inclusion, Generations, Intergenerational, Elderly.

Introduction

South Asians represent one of the largest ethnic minority groups in the United Kingdom, primarily comprising individuals with heritage from countries such as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka (Office for National Statistics, 2021). This community has been present in the UK for several generations, with a significant wave of immigration occurring in the post-war period to support labour demands. Since then, South Asians have continued to shape and contribute to various aspects of British society, including healthcare, education, business, and the arts (Raleigh & Holmes, 2021).

Social inclusion is essential to community health, especially for older adults. Defined as creating environments where all members have opportunities to participate in society, social inclusion fosters well-being, prevents loneliness, and strengthens social bonds (Davey & Gordon, 2017). In the United Kingdom, older adults face specific social isolation challenges, particularly those aged 65 and above (Walsh et al., 2021). Language barriers, cultural disconnect, limited resources, and inadequate community inclusion practices often increase their sense of exclusion (Palermo, 2019). 

Intergenerational practices can be defined as encouragement of interaction between different age groups; thus, offering unique benefits to both older and younger participants. These practices foster mutual understanding, reduce loneliness, and enhance social connections for older adults. Some studies show that intergenerational programs improve physical and mental health and promote lifelong learning, contributing to overall well-being (Clark et al., 2015). 

This study explores whether intergenerational practices can effectively support the social inclusion of older South Asians in the Black Country, addressing the specific cultural and linguistic barriers this group faces. This paper shares initial findings and discusses the implications of these practices on social integration.

Research Need and Importance

The social isolation of older adults, particularly within minority ethnic communities, is an under-researched area, yet it has profound implications for mental and physical health.

South Asians in the UK are statistically more likely to experience social isolation due to multiple factors: cultural stigmas, language limitations, and insufficient inclusion initiatives (Peters et al., 2021). According to research, nearly 50% of individuals from South Asian backgrounds report feelings of loneliness in the UK, a rate higher than the national average (Milbourne & Doheny, 2012). Studies also indicate that old age exclusion leads to decreased physical health, limited access to social services, and mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression as seen in the image 1 below (Scharf et al., 2017; Walsh, Scharf, and Keating, 2017).

A Gap in Understanding and the Role of Intergenerational Collaboration

While research has indicated the benefits of social inclusion for older adults, few studies focus specifically on South Asian elders in the UK. This study addresses this gap, investigating whether intergenerational activities can enhance social inclusion for this group. For example, through multi-strands such as listening and exploring the views, thoughts and feelings of individuals. The study also included an element of workshops to allow participants to engage with each other. 

Existing studies highlight the positive effects of intergenerational collaboration in fostering a sense of belonging and breaking down cultural barriers (Campbell et al., 2023). This research explores whether similar outcomes can be achieved within the South Asian community, an area that lacks comprehensive, targeted studies.

Importance of this research

Given the predicted growth in the ageing population and the increasing representation of South Asians within the UK demographic, addressing social isolation among older adults is a critical public health goal (Lessard-Phillips et al., 2020). This is also evident in Figure 1, which shows the increase in population in England in 2011 compared to 2021. 

Methodology

This study utilised a mixed-methods approach, combining primary and secondary data collection. Secondary data includes a literature review on social inclusion practices for communities and ageing populations. Primary data collection was structured into three strands, each to gather detailed insights from diverse participants.

Sample Size 

The study aimed to reach data saturation. All components of the research combined resulted in a total of 511 participants. This allowed the researcher to gain diverse and multiple perspectives and views. 

Primary Data Collection

Surveys with South Asians and professionals: Surveys were conducted with South Asians aged 18-64 and professionals, exploring their views on intergenerational engagement with older community members. The surveys assessed attitudes toward ageing, community involvement experiences, and intergenerational practices' perceived benefits.

Interviews: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with South Asians & professionals. Focusing on their experiences with social inclusion, barriers to community engagement, and willingness to participate in intergenerational activities. These interviews provide in-depth, personal perspectives on the impact of isolation and social integration.

Workshops: Interactive tailored workshops bring together South Asians and foster engagement within the community in a diverse way. 

The workshops consisted of both practical engaging activities such as arts and crafts to enable and promote interaction between the participants. This was also followed by questions about participants' thoughts around community activities, barriers, opportunities, thoughts and recommendations. 

The workshops also consisted of discussions about intergenerational activities and the perceived strengths and limitations of these activities.  The researcher observed and interacted with the groups to enable them to feel included and comfortable in sharing their ideas and views. 

Data Analysis

Data collected through surveys, interviews, and workshops were analysed using thematic and discourse analyses (Parry & Sivertsen, 2022; O’Donnell et al., 2018).

Thematic Analysis: This analysis identified recurring themes such as “cultural disconnection,” “community engagement,” and “barriers to participation.” These themes provided insights into factors contributing to social isolation and potential strategies for promoting inclusion (O’Donnell et al., 2018).

Discourse Analysis: Discourse analysis examined language and narratives around ageing, exploring how cultural perceptions influence social inclusion. This approach highlighted the social and cultural factors that shape attitudes towards intergenerational engagement, providing a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by older South Asians (Parry and Sivertsen, 2022).

Initial Findings and Insights

This study is ongoing, and the data gathered so far is in the preliminary stages of analysis. Initial findings indicate several emerging themes, which highlight the complexities surrounding social isolation, cultural disconnect, and community involvement among older South Asians in the Black Country. While the data presented here provides a glimpse into the issues faced by this group, a more comprehensive analysis will be available upon the study's completion. Below are some key insights identified thus far.

Cultural Disconnect: Many older South Asians report feelings of cultural disconnection, primarily due to generational divides in cultural values, traditions, and social practices. 

"I believe it isn’t taken seriously.” 

This disconnect contributes significantly to their sense of isolation, as they often feel misunderstood or overlooked by younger generations, who may not share the same cultural values or practices (Robinson, 2005). However, this preliminary observation will be further detailed as thematic analysis continues.

Community Involvement: Older South Asians in the Black Country frequently mention limited access to culturally relevant social activities as a significant barrier. 

Key quote:

"It is aimed at white people and not about minority groups. We are left out and not made aware, and there’s no consideration about what we believe." 

Participants report that local services and social programs often do not consider their linguistic and cultural needs, which exacerbates their exclusion from community life (Walsh et al., 2017). 

This theme highlights the need for more targeted, culturally sensitive community initiatives, but further insights will emerge as data analysis progresses.

Racism and Discrimination: Initial responses reveal that experiences of racism and discrimination also play a role in the social isolation of older South Asians. 

Key quote:

"It is not safe for us to go because of a lot of racism and it makes us look bad, and people treat us Asian people not good." 

Some participants expressed feeling marginalised not only within the broader UK society but, at times, within their own communities due to ageism or cultural biases. 

This emerging theme underscores the complex nature of social exclusion and the need for multi-faceted strategies to address both systemic and interpersonal challenges. However, the extent and impact of racism and discrimination will be fully addressed after further analysis.

Intergenerational Engagement: Both older and younger participants indicate a strong interest in intergenerational activities to build understanding and bridge cultural gaps. 

Key quote:

"By interacting with different age groups, we can reduce stereotypes and develop a deeper sense of belonging within our community."

Younger participants express a desire to connect with older generations but cite the lack of structured opportunities as a barrier. 

This feedback suggests that while there is potential for intergenerational engagement to strengthen community bonds, additional analysis will further clarify how these activities could best be implemented to maximize their impact (Clark et al., 2015).

Professional Perspectives on Barriers and Opportunities

Community professionals working with South Asian populations report several barriers to social inclusion. Many note that existing inclusion programs are generic, often lacking the cultural sensitivity needed to engage South Asian elders effectively. 

Key quote:

"We often find our approaches are misinterpreted, which can lead to distrust and disengagement from crucial services."

This lack of targeted approaches may discourage participation, with some professionals calling for specialized training to address the unique needs of minority ethnic elders. As this study progresses, these initial insights will be expanded upon to identify specific strategies for overcoming these barriers (Day, 2021).

Participant Feedback from Workshops

Feedback from workshops indicates a positive response to these activities, with both younger and older participants expressing a desire for more frequent engagement opportunities. At the end of the workshops, the researcher asked participants for voluntary feedback on this engagement. 

Key quote:

“I didn’t think they would listen to us… and just have a laugh” 

“can you come back and do this again with us”

Workshop observations and feedback suggest that intergenerational practices can lessen some feelings of isolation, but further data is needed to quantify this impact and develop tailored strategies.

Discussion: Addressing Cultural Barriers Through Intergenerational Practices

The findings of this study align with existing research on social inclusion and highlight the unique role of intergenerational practices in addressing cultural disconnect within minority communities (Lessard-Phillips et al., 2020). This was identified through multi-method research, listening to the participant's views, experiences and feelings through interviews, surveys and workshops. The three methods combined indicate that this approach could be used as a mechanism to reduce barriers. 

Furthermore, the preliminary findings suggest that engaging younger and older individuals in shared activities and practices fosters understanding, reduces isolation, and promotes cultural exchange. Addressing cultural and linguistic needs within intergenerational programs is essential to the success of these initiatives. The analysis of data is ongoing; therefore, further depth will be provided once it is completed.

Implications for Policy and Practice

The results of this research underscore the need for policy changes that prioritise social inclusion for minority ethnic groups, especially older adults. Community programs should incorporate culturally relevant intergenerational activities to encourage participation from both younger and older South Asians. Additionally, training for community professionals on cultural sensitivity could enhance the effectiveness of these programs, making them more accessible and appealing to minority ethnic elders (Ogg et al., 2017).

Future Research Directions

As this study progresses, further analysis will focus on evaluating the long-term impact of intergenerational practices on social inclusion. Additional research could explore how specific cultural elements, such as language and tradition, influence perceptions of ageing and inclusion within South Asian communities. Expanding this research to other minority groups could also provide valuable comparative insights.

Conclusion and Implications

This study contributes to the growing body of research on social inclusion, specifically within the South Asian community in the UK. The initial findings reveal that intergenerational practices offer a promising avenue for addressing social isolation and fostering community bonds among South Asian elders. However, tailored, culturally sensitive initiatives are essential for these programs to succeed.

The implications of this research are significant for policymakers, community organizers, and social service providers. By recognizing the unique challenges faced by minority ethnic elders, these stakeholders can develop more inclusive programs that promote social well-being and integration. Further analysis of this ongoing study will provide additional insights to inform policy and practice, helping to create a more inclusive society that values and supports its ageing population.

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