A Qualitative Study for Perceptions Toward Successful Aging Among Older Korean Immigrants in the United States

Abstract

A qualitative study was designed as an attempt to overcome the limitations of previous studies of successful aging, which included biased sample population, ignorance of subjective perception of successful aging, and a restrictive definition. The purpose of this study was to explore older immigrants’ perceptions toward successful aging and to indicate the important predictors to determine successful aging. In addition, this study aimed to identify significant factors influencing willingness to become successful agers among older immigrants in the United Sates. The research design was a cross-sectional key informant interview. One hundred and two (N=102) older Koreans in Los Angeles, CA, participated in this study. Interestingly, their children’s successful life was one of the heavily influential factors to become a successful ager among them. Implications are directed to social work researchers and practitioners to help educate the ethnic older adults in the community on the social and behavioral importance of the positive aspects of aging such as successful aging and healthy aging to increase the chance of longevity.