This state-of-the-art and multi-disciplinary reference is the first to assess empirical research and conceptual frameworks for understanding the mental health needs and service use of the ethnic elderly in America. Leading scholars, researchers, and clinicians in gerontology, epidemiology, psychiatry, psychology, sociology, anthropology, nursing and social work appraise the varying approaches, the demographic characteristics, the needs, help-seeking and mental health services and their use, and caregiving mental health delivery issues for African Americans, American Indians, Asian and Pacific Islander Americans, and Hispanic/Latino Americans. The handbook considers such problems as Alzheimer's disease, depression and problems of coping, culturally specific psychosocial nursing care programmes, the role of culture and class in mental and physical co-morbidity among the elderly, and important life-course perspectives for specific groups. Students, teachers and professionals in many fields and settings should find this handbook a valuable resource and text.