Author(s): JANG, H., LEE, D., PARK, S., BANG, S., Institution: BAYCREST HOSPITAL, Country: CANADA, Abstract-ID: 279

INTRODUCTION:
This study aims to compare key fitness components between older Korean immigrant women in Canada and their counterparts residing in South Korea to identify differences in fitness profiles and enhance understanding of factors influencing physical health in this population.
METHODS:
Thirty-one Korean immigrant women in Canada (79.3 ± 4.3 years) completed handgrip strength, Chair Stand, Timed Up-and-Go, Sit-and-Reach, and 6-Minute Walk assessments. Comparative data were obtained from thirty-three women in South Korea (74.5 ± 2.7 years) who completed the Korean National Fitness Award tests. Group differences between Korean immigrants (KI) and Korean residents (KR) were analyzed using independent t-tests.
RESULTS:
Significant group differences were observed across most fitness variables. KR participants exhibited significantly higher performance than KI participants in relative handgrip strength (KI = 35.2 ± 6.9 kg; KR = 41.9 ± 8.9 kg; p = 0.001), the Chair Stand Test (KI = 13.5 ± 3.4 repetitions; KR = 23.3 ± 5.9 repetitions; p < 0.0001), the Timed Up-and-Go Test (KI = 7.8 ± 2.2 s; KR = 5.7 ± 1.2 s; p < 0.0001), and the 6-Minute Walk Test (KI = 477.6 ± 86.3 m; KR = 554.6 ± 77.8 m; p < 0.0001). However, one fitness component—flexibility—was significantly higher in the experimental group, with KI participants outperforming KR participants on the Sit-and-Reach Test (KI = 27.3 ± 11.3 cm; KR = 15.4 ± 9.3 cm; p < 0.0001).
CONCLUSION:
The findings show that Korean residents in South Korea outperformed Korean immigrants in Canada across most health-related fitness components, suggesting a potentially slower age-related decline in the KR group. Further research using more rigorous, controlled designs is needed to address confounding factors.