Supporting Aging-in-Place Well: Findings From a Cluster Analysis of the Reasons for Aging-in-Place and Perceptions of Well-Being. (January 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ahn, Mira; Kwon, Hyun Joo; Kang, Jiyun
• Is Part Of: Journal of applied gerontology. Volume 39:Number 1(2020)
• Page Start: 3
• Page End: 15
• Publication Date: 2020-01
• Subjects: aging in place -- U.S. seniors -- well-being -- cluster analysis -- segments; Gerontology -- Periodicals; 362.6
• DOI: 10.1177/0733464817748779
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0733-4648

Abstract

Prior research on gerontology and housing has frequently adopted a perspective that aging-in-place is the "goal." Despite these meaningful results and policy implications, opportunities to explore consequences of aging-in-place, such as the association of this with overall well-being, have been overlooked. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating perceptions of well-being that could act as a driver or result of aging-in-place. With a nationwide random sample of non-Hispanic White, older individuals (60+), living in their homes ( N = 328), three segments of senior residents based on their reasons for aging-in-place were identified. Results reinforce the importance of community-based integrative programs and policies by indicating that the three identified clusters were not homogeneous; however, inclusive community-based supports and services can provide what each cluster needs to successfully age-in-place. Discussion provides a perspective on how to support successful aging-in-place, including the role of the federal government in funding and legislation.