The Relationship of Social Engagement to Psychological Well-Being of Older Adults in Assisted Living Facilities

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore social engagement and its relationship to the psychological well-being of older adults residing in assisted living facilities (ALFs). Drawing on activity theory, the study focuses on the salience of social relationships on residents' life satisfaction and depressive symptoms. A total of 82 residents were interviewed face-to-face in eight ALFs in a southern state of the United States. The data were analyzed using hierarchical regression models in that demographic and health variables, site characteristics, and social engagement variables were entered into the model in successive steps. Results indicate that perceived friendliness of residents and staff was significantly associated with life satisfaction and depressive symptoms controlling for other variables, and enjoyment of mealtimes was related to low depressive symptoms. Findings suggest that ALFs could promote residents' psychological well-being by encouraging residents to develop meaningful relationships within the facility and by designing enjoyable mealtimes.