The Elderly Samoan

This article illustrates the impact of urbanization on the elderly Samoan in Western and American Samoa showing contrasts based on the differing rates of urbanization between the two. The impact of political and economic factors such as government programs that undermine patterns of traditional culture is discussed. Current research on the elderly Samoan done by anthropologists and others is covered. The article also discusses the cultural patterns of the extended family, the aiga, and value systems. The article concludes with perceptions of the authors of the elderly in Western Samoa.