Quality of life of Korean and Korean American older adults: a comparison.

ABSTRACT

This study compared the quality of life (QOL) between Korean and Korean American older adults. The participants included 306 older adults (155 Korean, 151 Korean American) age 65 and older who met eligibility criteria and agreed to participate in the study. No significant difference was found in QOL between Korean and Korean American older adults. Differences in the subcategories of QOL between the two groups in cluded higher scores for the Korean older adults in physical functioning, social functioning, and body pain. Scores for the subcategories of role limitations due to physical problems and vitality were higher for the Korean American older adults. Multiple regression analysis revealed that the powerful predictors of QOL for both groups were self-esteem and activities of daily living (ADLs)/instrumental ADLs (IADLs). It is recommended that nursing interventions to increase self-esteem and performance of ADLs/IADLs be developed to enhance QOL among older adults.