The Role of Community Context in Immigrant Elderly Living Arrangements

Abstract

Previous studies of the determinants of living arrangements for immigrant elderly have focused on cultural tradition or individual characteristics, without addressing community-level structural factors. This study examined the living arrangements of Korean American elderly. The authors hypothesized that the probability of Korean American elderly living independently is associated with community characteristics, specifically the availability of subsidized housing near Korean ethnic communities. Using the U.S. Census Bureau 1990 Public Use Microdata Sample, the authors compared the living arrangements of Korean Americans aged 60 and over in Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York City. After adjusting for demographic, socioeconomic, cultural, and health factors, Korean American elderly in New York City are less likely to live independently compared to those in Los Angeles or Chicago. Using Korean business directories and public housing lists, the authors found that the availability of subsidized housing and the concentration of Korean businesses are jointly associated with residential autonomy.