Anti-Asian Racism and COVID-19 Impact on Older Adults: The Voices of Social Workers

Heightened anti-Asian racism and hate crimes during the COVID-19 pandemic impacted older adults and the social workers who supported them. Yet, the experiences of Asian and Asian American (AAA) social workers are unknown. This study aimed to explore the perspectives and experiences of social workers focusing on the aging population during the anti-Asian racism climate and the COVID-19 pandemic. Guided by a qualitative approach, seventeen AAA social workers participated in semi-structured interviews. Based on thematic analysis, the following themes were identified: concerns about safety and discrimination, perceived service and support needs for older adults, and perceived generational gaps in advocacy. Social work practice, policy, and research implications are discussed.