Transitioning to assisted living: exploring older adults’ perceptions of home and self.

Abstract

The concept of home, a prevalent element of place-based theory, is complex and multifaceted. While difficult to define, the home environment is a critical aspect of physical, social, and psychological well-being, especially among older adults. A continued theoretical focus on aging-in-place, however, stymies the understanding of meaning of home within other types of senior housing environments. As a result, the literature surrounding the transition from independent to supportive housing in the context of environmental meaning and personal impact is lacking. The purpose of this study was to describe the experience of residential change from independent to assisted living and subsequent influence upon older adults’ perception of home and self. This research aims to define concepts and identify relationships to further the development of theory in explaining the meaning of home for older adults over time and circumstance. In addition, the study is designed to generate implications for design, policy, and research to minimize negative impacts and support transitions between independent living and assisted living for older adults.