Read the following passage about The Elderly in Multicultural Societies: Challenges and Opportunities and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 23 to 30.
In multicultural societies, elderly individuals face unique challenges and important opportunities. As communities diversify rapidly, traditional support systems are constantly evolving. Seniors often navigate unfamiliar cultural environments while facing significant language barriers that lead to social isolation. These persistent obstacles frequently prevent full access to essential healthcare services or meaningful community participation. Fortunately, innovative local organizations address these critical issues by offering comprehensive translation services and culturally sensitive care options.
Technology presents both remarkable benefits and considerable difficulties for elderly individuals from various cultural backgrounds. Digital tools effectively connect seniors with distant family members globally, yet many older adults struggle substantially with these new communication methods. Recent research shows approximately 65% of elderly immigrants experience digital exclusion compared to native-born seniors. In response, numerous community centers have successfully established specialized technology workshops for older adults from diverse backgrounds, helping them maintain vital connections with overseas relatives and friends.
Cultural differences significantly impact elderly care approaches across communities. In collectivist cultures, elderly family members traditionally live with their children, while Western societies typically emphasize personal independence. This fundamental divergence creates tension when immigrant families attempt to adapt to new societal norms. However, vibrant multicultural environments provide valuable opportunities for exchanging diverse perspectives on aging. Many communities benefit tremendously from adopting hybrid approaches blending traditional cultural practices with modern care techniques, creating more comprehensive support systems.
Economic aspects of aging in multicultural contexts matter significantly for overall wellbeing. Elderly immigrants frequently face severe financial hardships due to limited retirement savings and persistent employment discrimination throughout their lives. Some progressive governments implement supportive policies addressing these vulnerable individuals' unique needs. Certain forward-thinking regions offer specialized employment programs for seniors with diverse cultural backgrounds, recognizing their valuable skills and extensive life experiences. Additionally, creative intergenerational initiatives connecting elderly immigrants with younger community members effectively foster mutual understanding and practical support, successfully transforming demographic challenges into meaningful community enrichment opportunities.
The word “divergence” in paragraph 3 could be best replaced by _________.
