Predictors of morale among Korean immigrant elderly in the USA

This study assesses the morale and its salient predictors among Korean immigrant elderly living alone or with a spouse only. Face-to-face interviews with 131 Korean immigrant elderly reveal relatively low morale, as measured by the modified Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale. Correlation analysis of morale with 14 independent variables shows that education, health, number of companions, number of confidants, intimacy with children, independent living skills, and preference between Korea and the USA as a place to live are significant zero-order correlates of morale. Multiple regression analysis of the 14 variables identifies 4 as significant predictors of morale: health, intimacy with children, education, and preference between Korea and the USA as a place to live.