Older Korean Americans' Experiences in an Adult Medical Daycare Center.

This article examines the experiences of older Korean Americans attending an Adult Medical Daycare Center (AMDC) and their health-related decision-making processes. Using qualitative interviews with 12 participants aged over 65, the study found that AMDC attendance provided culturally tailored benefits such as Korean language communication, ethnic food, social interaction, and improved access to healthcare, which contributed to enhanced physical and mental well-being. Despite these benefits, participants reported ongoing challenges including financial strain, loneliness, and limited health knowledge due to language barriers, which affected their confidence in making health-related decisions. Decision-making often involved reliance on healthcare providers and family members—particularly sons—reflecting cultural norms, while participants expressed a preference for institutional end-of-life care to avoid burdening family. The findings suggest the need for culturally sensitive interventions within AMDCs to address social, financial, and decision-making support for older Korean Americans.