The elderly population and community engagement in the Republic of Korea: The role of community storytelling network

Abstract

The current study examined how Korean elders’ use of local media, connections to local organizations, communication with neighbors, length of residence, and homeownership contribute to the development of neighborhood belonging, collective efficacy, and volunteering behaviors in the community. A self-administered paper survey was conducted among the Korean elderly in Daegu, a metropolitan city in Korea. A total of 255 valid responses were collected for analysis. Results found that Korean elders who used media frequently, connected with local organizations, and had conversations with neighbors often were actively involved in neighborhood activities and volunteering. Length of residence was positively related to neighborhood belonging. Homeownership was a positive predictor of collective efficacy. The results suggest that frequent communication with neighbors, media, or members in local organizations may offer Korean elders an opportunity to live active community lives.