Adaptive Resilience of Community Organizations Serving Older Asian American Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Community-based organizations (CBOs) play a central role in helping older Asian American adults access critical services. Older Asian American adults are at a higher risk for negative outcomes from COVID-19 compared to younger adults. Additionally, increased racial discrimination and social isolation leaves older Asian American adults more vulnerable to mental health and physical health issues. This study interviewed six participants from three CBOs serving older Asian American adults in Washington state. The purpose was to understand the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on resource endowments and organizational resilience as CBOs adapted to the evolving needs of older Asian American adults. From these interviews, four themes were uncovered: organizational resourcefulness, technology as a connector and an isolator, racial discrimination and systemic racism, and personal and organizational resilience. Despite many hardships throughout COVID-19, CBOs serving older Asian American adults have adapted and endured. Future research should further explore the link between personal, community, and organizational resilience in CBOs.