From Tradition to Innovation: The Future of Aging in Korean and Korean American Communities

TL;DR

This paper explores how traditional practices and modern innovations impact aging and well-being in Korean and Korean American communities.

Contribution

It introduces interdisciplinary research on culturally responsive aging strategies, combining traditional and modern approaches.

Findings

Traditional complementary medicine is used by Korean Americans due to healthcare access barriers.

Post-retirement workforce re-entry in Korea is linked to reduced depressive symptoms.

Digital skills among older Koreans are influenced by social and demographic factors.

Abstract

As aging populations grow in both Korea and Korean American communities, the intersection of tradition and innovation plays an important role in shaping the health and well-being of older adults. This interdisciplinary symposium highlights research in Korean and Korean American communities, bridging traditional practices and modern innovations to address health behaviors, mental health, digital inclusion, and novel interventions. The main objectives of this symposium are to (1) examine how traditional values and emerging innovations influence aging experiences among Korean and Korean American older adults, (2) identify key social and technological determinants of well-being, and (3) discuss policy and intervention strategies that can support older adults in these communities. This session features experts in gerontology, social work, and public policy to offer a nuanced understanding of aging in Korean and Korean American communities. Dr. Yi examines Korean American older adults’ reliance on traditional complementary and alternative medicine (TCAM) due to healthcare access barriers, highlighting individual and geographic influences. Dr. Lim-Soh investigates the impact of post-retirement workforce re-entry on depressive symptoms in Korea, revealing mental health benefits of bridge employment. Dr. Kang analyzes digital skills trajectories among middle-aged and older Koreans, identifying key social and demographic determinants influencing adaptation. Finally, Dr. Kwon assesses the feasibility of a virtual reality-based psychological intervention for older Korean immigrants in the U.S., addressing mental health challenges linked to racial discrimination and the COVID-19 pandemic. By bridging tradition and innovation, this discussion provides insights into culturally responsive policies and interventions that support aging populations across borders. Korean and Korean American and Aging Interest Group Sponsored Symposium