An Exploratory Case Study of Social Connection in Older Women

University

Shawnee State University

Major

Occupational Therapy

Student Type

Graduate Student

Presentation Types

Poster Group Presentation

Keywords:

social connection, older adults, older women, aging in place

Abstract

Understanding social connections among older women residing in diverse living environments is important to understand in order to better address the needs of the growing older adult population. This exploratory case study used semi-structured interviews with three women aged 75 or older to explore social connections. Each participant lived alone in one of three environments. Thematic analysis revealed four main themes contributing to social connection experiences: physical abilities, relationships, activities, and life contentedness. Implications for occupational therapy practice include the need to include a focus on the occupations of health maintenance, social participation, leisure, and instrumental activities of daily living.

Human Subjects

yes

IRB Approval

yes

Faculty Mentor Name

Ann Marie Allen, MOT, OTR/L

Faculty Mentor Title

Assistant Professor

Faculty Mentor Academic Department

Rehabilitation Therapies

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An Exploratory Case Study of Social Connection in Older Women

Understanding social connections among older women residing in diverse living environments is important to understand in order to better address the needs of the growing older adult population. This exploratory case study used semi-structured interviews with three women aged 75 or older to explore social connections. Each participant lived alone in one of three environments. Thematic analysis revealed four main themes contributing to social connection experiences: physical abilities, relationships, activities, and life contentedness. Implications for occupational therapy practice include the need to include a focus on the occupations of health maintenance, social participation, leisure, and instrumental activities of daily living.