Ageing well: the time–spaces of possibility for older female Latvian migrants in the UK. (2nd April 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lulle, Aija; King, Russell
• Is Part Of: Social & cultural geography. Volume 17:Number 3(2016)
• Page Start: 444
• Page End: 462
• Publication Date: 2016-04-02
• Subjects: Ageing -- migration -- empowerment -- well-being approach -- Latvia -- UK; Migration -- vieillissement -- émancipation -- approche du bien-être -- Royaume-Uni -- Lettonie; Migración -- envejecimiento -- atribución de poder -- enfoque en el bienestar -- Reino Unido -- Letonia; Human geography -- Periodicals; 304.205
• DOI: 10.1080/14649365.2015.1089584
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1464-9365

Abstract

Abstract: In this article, we explore the relationships between ageing, place and migration based on life history interviews with 37 female Latvian migrants in the UK. Reflecting an approach that sees migration as both embodied and emplaced, we conceptualise ageing and migration as entwined becomings that reconfigure the possibilities of a 'better life' in different time–spaces. Our approach combines time-geography with a well-being-based approach to migration constraints and outcomes. Our stress is on vitality – the ways in which migrants are able to mobilise resources and enact agency even in an environment where some aspects of life and working conditions are restrictive and exploitative. Hence, older Latvian women are able to transgress negative perceptions of ageing in their home country and achieve a measure of empowerment, both economic and psychosocial by moving to the UK.