The Impact of Social Determinants of Health and Acculturation on Quality of Life in Older Chinese American Adults With Chronic Pain: A Quantitative Study

Abstract

Introduction:As of 2019, the United States houses 5.3 million Chinese Americans (CA), with 689,000 being older adults. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between social determinants of health (SDOH) and acculturation on quality of life in CA older adults, an underresearched area.Methods:Using a quantitative correlational descriptive design, CA older adults ( n = 110) in NYC with chronic pain were examined. Data were collected by utilizing the PRAPARE Screening Tool, Asian American Acculturation Scale, and SF-12 Questionnaire.Results:Regression revealed a negative correlation between SDOH and quality of life ( p = .001). The acculturation’s impact was nonsignificant ( p = .647).Discussion:While SDOH significantly impacted the quality of life, acculturation did not significantly predict the quality of life for older Chinese American adults with chronic pain. Further research is warranted to explore the nuanced dynamics between acculturation, SDOH, and quality of life in this population.