This qualitative study examined three areas of social service provision through the experiences of non-English speaking older Hispanic immigrants. These three areas included availability and accessibility of services and culturally competent practices of service providers. The qualitative approach of phenomenology was used to interview ten participants in order to explore their experiences with service provision. An analysis of the interviews pointed to the following themes: (a) experiences with services were deeply connected to issues of immigration and adaptation; (b) language barriers were especially difficult to overcome in services; (c) the role of families as primary supports needed to be reconsidered in order to offer better quality of services; and (d) culturally competent practices needed to be reinforced at the organizational level of workers, agencies and government in order to become more effective. From these themes, recommendations and implications for social work and services for non-English speaking elderly Hispanics are detailed.

This qualitative study examined three areas of social service provision through the experiences of non-English speaking older Hispanic immigrants. These three areas included availability and accessibility of services and culturally competent practices of service providers. The qualitative approach of phenomenology was used to interview ten participants in order to explore their experiences with service provision. An analysis of the interviews pointed to the following themes: (a) experiences with services were deeply connected to issues of immigration and adaptation; (b) language barriers were especially difficult to overcome in services; (c) the role of families as primary supports needed to be reconsidered in order to offer better quality of services; and (d) culturally competent practices needed to be reinforced at the organizational level of workers, agencies and government in order to become more effective. From these themes, recommendations and implications for social work and services for non-English speaking elderly Hispanics are detailed.

The number of older Hispanic adults who experience divorce in late-life is growing. Nonetheless, both minority groups – Hispanics and older adults – are generally misrepresented and disadvantaged while their families disintegrate through divorce. The literature has failed to represent this population by publishing general research methodologies that cannot successfully and accurately describe their reality. Mental health professionals are exposed to contradicting and confusing views regarding their experience of divorce. This dissertation presents a qualitative case study based on the perspectives of 12 older Hispanic adults in Miami-Dade who experienced divorce in late-life. An analysis of the data revealed that older Hispanic adults perceive their divorce as a challenge and the best alternative to a dysfunctional relationship. They identify divorce as the only way to reach peace and happiness. Participation in a religious support group brings balance, healing, emotional insight, and gradual adjustment. The knowledge gained from this study contributes to existing literature regarding divorce adjustment, family therapy, multiculturalism, and qualitative studies. It allows researchers and readers to advocate for social change by involving older Hispanic adults who have been largely ignored so far. It also empowers this population group by allowing their stories to be told in their own words.