Stephen Neville1, Julia Russell2, Jeffery Adams3, Debra Jackson4. 1. a Department of Nursing , Auckland University of Technology , Private Bag 92006, Auckland , New Zealand. 2. b Presbyterian Support Southland , 181 Spey Street, Invercargill , New Zealand. 3. c SHORE and Whariki Research Centre, Massey University , Albany Campus, Auckland , New Zealand. 4. d Faculty of Health & Life Sciences , Oxford Brookes University , Oxford , UK.
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.
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.
Authors: Stephen Neville; Jeffery Adams; Jed Montayre; Peter Larmer; Nick Garrett; Christine Stephens; Fiona Alpass Journal: Am J Mens Health Date: 2018-02-20