Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health
Europe faces the dual challenges of population ageing and increasing migration, resulting in a growing demographic of older immigrants with complex healthcare needs. Despite extensive research on ageing and migration, regional evidence on healthcare provision for older immigrants remains fragmented. Participatory approaches that integrate the voices and experiences of older immigrants can improve cultural sensitivity, accessibility, and health equity, ultimately leading to better outcomes. This scoping review seeks to contribute to filling the existing knowledge gap by systematically mapping the literature on healthcare provision using participatory approaches for older immigrants in Europe.
This scoping review followed Arksey and O’Malley’s methodological framework and the PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines. A comprehensive search of five electronic databases was conducted in February 2025. Eligible studies included empirical research focusing on immigrants aged 60 years and older in Europe that used participatory approaches to healthcare provision. Data were charted and synthesized thematically to identify barriers and facilitators of healthcare utilization discussed in the context of participatory approaches, as well as gaps in the literature.
From 2,411 records, 23 studies published between 2011 and 2025 met the inclusion criteria. Most were conducted in the United Kingdom, Denmark, and Sweden, employing diverse qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods designs. Common participatory strategies included bilingual/bicultural staff, partnerships with community organizations, and the involvement of peer researchers. These approaches enhanced trust, relevance, and access to healthcare services. Key barriers were language and communication difficulties, cultural stigma, and distrust of services. Enablers included culturally adapted interventions, continuity of care, and trusted community engagement. However, many studies reported the use of superficial participatory methods, underrepresented certain migrant groups, and rarely assessed long-term outcomes or compared participatory versus non-participatory models. Participatory approaches demonstrate strong potential to enhance healthcare provision for older immigrants in Europe by improving cultural competence, accessibility, and trust. To achieve equity, participatory practices must be embedded into mainstream healthcare systems through sustainable funding, workforce training, and policy reforms. Future research should prioritize comparative evaluations, long-term impact assessments, and inclusion of underrepresented immigrant populations.
