Ethnic identity among foreign-born Chinese Canadian elders

Based on data from a random sample of foreign-born Chinese elders (n = 708) interviewed in Vancouver and Victoria in 1995-96, this paper examines the extent, determinants, and consequences of ethnic identification. Of the res pondents, who have a median age of 75 and a median age at immigration to Ca nada of 55, 49.3 per cent stated that they felt more Canadian than Chinese, 36.6 per cent felt more Chinese, and 14.1 per cent felt equally Chinese an d Canadian. Logistic regression analysis is performed, in an attempt to dis cover the determinants of Chinese ethnic identity. Significant independent variables include: place of residence, age, years since immigration, Englis h-speaking ability, and personal monthly income. Consequences of retention of Chinese ethnic identity are explored, in terms of religious affiliation, health-related behaviours, family variables, and well-being variables. Onl y well-being is affected by retention of Chinese identity, an effect that i s negative and felt largely by women only.