Korean J Adult Nurs.  2012 Oct;24(5):540-545.

Comparison of Functional Independence among Community-dwelling Older Adults in Rural Areas in South Korea and the United States

• Lee J

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of the study was to compare level of functional independence and its correlates among community-dwelling older adults in rural areas between South Korea and the United Sates.
METHODS
The study employed a comparative and correlational design. Data were collected from 198 community-dwelling older adults in rural areas (South Korea=100, & US = 98). Functional independence, cognitive function, obesity and general characteristics were measured.
RESULTS
From both countries, approximately fifteen percent of older adults living independently had cognitive problems without any treatments. Among Korean older adults functional independence was associated with a number of chronic diseases and aging while in the United States the participants had a negative correlation with obesity and aging.
CONCLUSION
For Korean older adults in rural areas, nurses should focus on monitoring older adults' abilities to manage chronic illness and designing self-management programs while in the United States the focus should be on healthy lifestyle programs about exercise and diet to increase functional independence.

MeSH Terms

Adult
Aging
Chronic Disease
Diet
Humans
Life Style
Obesity
Republic of Korea
Self Care
United States