Exploring the Effects of Limited English Language Proficiency on Disability: A Pilot Study of Adult Chinese-, Japanese-, and Korean-language Speakers in the United States

This is a pilot study contending that limited language proficiency is associated with disability outcomes for Chinese-, Japanese-, and Korean-speaking Americans in the United States, as determined by application of the Disablement Process model. Using the 5 percent public-use micro-data samples (PUMS) from the United States Census 2000, this study explores the relationship by employing a Poisson regression on these three language groups from a comparative perspective. The findings shed light on the significant effects of limited language proficiency as a predisposing risk factor on disability outcomes and also demonstrate the importance of individual, family, and community characteristics as either interventions or exacerbators. The results of this study should encourage immigrants to learn English and call attention to the needs for equal and comprehensive healthcare services for people who are from diverse ethnic backgrounds.