English Language Proficiency and Health-Related Quality of Life among Chinese and Korean Immigrant Elders

Abstract

This study examined the association between English language proficiency and health outcomes in a regional probability sample (n = 205) of elderly Chinese and Korean immigrants. Data support that these two Asian ethnic subgroups differ in English proficiency and health-related quality of life. Chinese and Korean elders had poorer health than the national norms, and poor English proficiency was associated with poorer outcomes for six of eight health outcomes measures. Implications for health care delivery and social work are discussed.