The impact of a naturally occurring retirement community supportive services program on older adult participants’ social networks: a qualitative study (Preprint)

Abstract

The majority of older adults want to age in place, in their homes and communities. However, this can be challenging for many, frequently due to a lack of supports that allow for aging-in-place. Naturally occurring retirement community supportive services programs (NORC-SSPs) offer one approach to help older adults age in place. While qualitative studies have examined the experiences of NORC-SSP participants, little is known how participation in NORC-SSP programming affects participants’ social networks.

This study aims to explore the experiences of thirteen NORC-SSP residents and how participating in NORC-SSP programming, specifically based on the Oasis model, influenced their social networks.

Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with participants in four NORC communities in Ontario, Canada. Social network theory informed the interview guide and thematic analysis.

Three main themes were identified from the interviews with Oasis participants: expansion and deepening of social networks, Oasis activities (something to do, someone to do it with), and the self-reported impact of Oasis on mental health and well-being (feeling and coping with life better).

Naturally occurring retirement communities offer an ideal opportunity to build strong communities that provide deep, meaningful social connections that expand their social networks. NORC-SSPS programs can support healthy aging and allow older adults to age-in-place.