Ethnic Senior Schools, Religion, and Psychological Well-Being Among Older Korean Immigrants in the United States: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

This qualitative case study examined the influence of the social support provided by attendance at ethnic senior schools on the psychological well-being of older Korean immigrants with limited skills in English, driving, and the use of public transportation. This study also sought to understand how older Korean immigrants' religion helped them to deal with the psychological stress resulting from living in the United States. Ten older Korean immigrants attending the same ethnic senior school were chosen for the study. Ethnic senior schools provide participants with opportunities to leave the house, to meet friends who can provide emotional support, and to have self-enhancement experiences. The participants' religion enabled them to appreciate their current situations, to feel protected and guided, and to serve others voluntarily. The results highlight the importance of older immigrants' attending senior schools as well as the importance of their religion in dealing with the psychological distress associated with immigration.