Family Relationships and Depression among Elderly Korean Immigrants
Author Information
Author(s): Lee Young-Me, Karyn Holm
Primary Institution: Nursing Department, DePaul University
Hypothesis
What is the association between family relationships (living arrangements and support networks) and depression among elderly Korean immigrants?
Conclusion
Elderly Korean immigrants living independently reported higher levels of depression despite expressing a desire for independence.
Supporting Evidence
- Over 70% of Korean elders live apart from their adult children.
- Elderly Korean immigrants living independently reported higher levels of depression.
- 22.6% of the sample had scores indicative of clinical depression.
- Korean elders living with their adult children showed lower depression scores.
Takeaway
This study found that elderly Korean immigrants who live alone feel sadder than those who live with their children, even if they want to be independent.
Methodology
Descriptive comparative research design comparing family relationships and depression among elderly Korean immigrants.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reporting and the specific geographic area of the sample.
Limitations
Use of a convenience sample, single-informant self-report methodology, and a cross-sectional design.
Participant Demographics
160 elderly Korean immigrants, 30% men and 70% women, mean age 74 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.009
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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