ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The concept of aging in place is acknowledged as the preference of older adults, yet without consideration of the intersections of diversity in later life, it is critiqued as unattainable, unrealistic, or even undesirable. This gave rise to the exploration of what is needed to age in the right place (AIRP). Building on existing research, we examined the meaning of AIRP to older adults (aged 55+ years) who have experienced homelessness. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: We conducted photovoice interviews with 11 residents of a temporary housing program in Metro Vancouver (Canada). RESULTS: Using thematic analysis, we organized meanings of AIRP according to (1) Where one lives-the physical and social environment, (2) Where one goes and what one does, and (3) How one feels in "the right place." DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: Participants meanings' of AIRP are applied to Maslow's hierarchy of needs. That is, when basic needs of shelter are met, participants' considerations of "the right place to age" extend beyond affordable housing to include feeling safe and comfortable in one's home and neighborhood and having access to meaningful engagement and activities-both in vibrant urban districts and naturescapes-enabled by affordable transportation. Our examination of what AIRP means to this group of older adults broadens current conceptualizations. Given the increase in homelessness among older adults, it is imperative that policymakers and practitioners are cognizant of meanings of AIRP so diverse older adults can not only age in place, but can thrive in the right place.
Subject(s)
Housing , Independent Living , Aged , Humans , Aging , Residence Characteristics , Social EnvironmentABSTRACT
Table Correction [...].
ABSTRACT
Research on programs offering senior-specific housing supports and enabling "aging in the right place" (AIRP) for "older persons with experiences of homelessness" (OPEH) is limited. This paper presents an environmental assessment of a "transitional housing program" (THP) in Metro Vancouver, Canada, for OPEH to AIRP. Data were collected using Aging in the Right Place Environmental (AIRP-ENV) and Secondary Observation (AIRP-ENV-SO) audit tools designed to evaluate multi-unit housing for OPEH. The 241-item AIRP-ENV tool was used to assess the built environmental features of four multi-unit buildings of the THP. The AIRP-ENV-SO tool was used to collect contextual data on the function, safety, and land use of the surrounding neighborhood. Findings identified built environment and urban design features that support THP residents' safety, security, accessibility, functionality, social activity, autonomy, and identity. The THP buildings were rated 'Good' for accessibility, functionality, autonomy and identity, while 'Satisfactory' or 'Poor' for safety, security, and social activity. Findings point to the built environmental features (e.g., size and layout of spaces) required in the THP to create opportunities for increased social engagement among residents and enhanced safety and security. The AIRP-ENV and AIRP-ENV-SO audit tools can help inform programs across the housing continuum to develop supportive built environments that promote AIRP for OPEH.