Living in your own home and being socially connected at 95 years and beyond: a qualitative study. Issue 2 (6th May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Neville, Stephen; Russell, Julia; Adams, Jeffery; Jackson, Debra
• Is Part Of: Contemporary nurse. Volume 52:Issue 2/3(2016)
• Page Start: 258
• Page End: 268
• Publication Date: 2016-05-06
• Subjects: critical gerontology -- gerontological nursing -- oldest old -- older people -- social connections; Nursing -- Periodicals -- Australia -- Nursing -- Periodicals; Nurses -- Australia -- Periodicals; 610.730994
• DOI: 10.1080/10376178.2016.1205457
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1037-6178

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Being socially connected is linked to positively influencing older people's ability to remain living in their own homes and has shown to support independence and enhance well-being. Aim: To explore how individuals aged 95 years and older living in their own home remain socially connected. Methods: Informed by a critical gerontological approach, semi-structured interviews with eight women and two men aged between 96 and 100 years were undertaken. Following transcription, data were thematically analysed. Results: Three main themes illuminating social connectedness were identified: "Keeping company: staying connected with family and friends", "Doing things together: engaging with paid and unpaid helpers" and "Having pride and enjoyment: continuing with hobbies and interests". Conclusion: It is important that health professionals and social service providers recognise the importance of social connectedness, and provide a range of options to support continuing social connectedness and community engagement for older people.