Late Adulthood in the Palestinian Diaspora

For Palestinian American individuals in late-stage adulthood, the effects of generational trauma may continue to manifest in a number of ways (Farhat, 2021). They may have lived through a lifetime of trauma and may be dealing with the cumulative effects of it. Those from this generation may have experienced the Nakba, the catastrophic displacement and dispossession of Palestinians from their property by Zionist militia in 1948. This event has had a profound impact on the collective memory and cultural heritage of the Palestinian people (Giacaman et al., 2018). In late-stage adulthood, individuals may continue to struggle with feelings of hopelessness and powerlessness in relation to the ongoing occupation of Palestine. They may feel a strong sense of identity and connection with their cultural heritage, and a sense of alienation and marginalization from the larger society. In addition to the ongoing impact of trauma, individuals in late-stage adulthood may experience a decline in physical and cognitive health, which may exacerbate the effects of trauma. They may also experience a greater sense of isolation and loneliness, as they may have lost loved ones and may have difficulty forming new relationships (Giacaman et al., 2018).

They may struggle with depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Approaching the end of life without being able to return to their homeland can be especially challenging for Palestinians in late-stage adulthood. They may have lived their entire lives in diaspora, far from the land and culture that they identify with. This loss can lead to feelings of sadness, anger, and regret. They may also feel a sense of injustice that they were not able to return to their homeland before they died. This can result in feelings of hopelessness and may exacerbate the effects of trauma (Giacaman et al., 2018). A study conducted by Zidan and Awidi (2020) explored the experiences of Palestinian elders in the United States. The study found that the participants experienced social isolation and discrimination due to their ethnicity and age.

Another study by Amer and Hovey (2007) examined the mental health of second-generation and early immigrant Arab Americans, including Palestinians, in the United States. The study found that socio-demographic differences influenced acculturation and mental health outcomes among the participants. In Canada, a study by Abu-Rmeileh et al. (2017) examined the health and well-being of Palestinian immigrants. The study found that the participants experienced cultural and linguistic barriers to accessing healthcare, as well as discrimination and racism. The participants also reported a strong desire to maintain their cultural identity and connection to their homeland.

Despite the challenges, Palestinian individuals in late-stage adulthood may have developed a sense of acceptance and understanding about their experiences. They may also have had more time to reflect on their lives and their experiences, and may have a unique perspective on the history and cultural heritage of the Palestinian people (Giacaman et al., 2018). Palestinians typically hold high respect for their elders and value their wisdom, experiences, and guidance. Family and community are highly valued in Palestinian culture, and the elderly are seen as a source of stability, comfort, and support (Amer & Hovey, 2007). They are often considered the keepers of traditions and cultural heritage, and their advice and opinions are sought after on important matters. Intergenerational bonds and the exchange of care between older and younger generations are also common in Palestinian society (Amer & Hovey, 2007).

References:

Abu-Rmeileh, N. M. E., Hamadneh, J., Husseini, A., Ramlawi, A., Giacaman, R., & Zurayk, H. (2017). Health and wellbeing of Palestinian immigrants in Canada: A scoping review. Global Public Health, 12(7), 889-904.

Amer, M. M., & Hovey, J. D. (2007). Socio-demographic differences in acculturation and mental health for a sample of 2nd generation/early immigrant Arab Americans. Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health, 9(4), 335-347.

Farhat, R. Z. (2021). Becoming Diaspora: A Comparative Analysis of Palestinian Diaspora Groups in New Jersey and Lebanon.

Giacaman, R., Mataria, A., Nguyen-Gillham, V., Abu Safieh, R., Stefanini, A., Chacour, M., & Pandolfi, R. (2018). Palestinian health system: An eyewitness account of the challenges to providing health care in a conflict setting. The Lancet, 391(10134), 2493-2501

Zidan, F., & Awidi, T. (2020). Palestinian elders' experiences of aging in the United States. Journal of Gerontological Social Work, 63(5), 452-469.