Older Adults in CCRCs: Their Social Engagement, Processes and Solutions

As the older adult population continues to grow, the demand for Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) is increasing in the United States. Older adults living in CCRCs may, however, experience social isolation and loneliness if they lack meaningful and sustained social engagement–seen as the quintessence of fulfilled human living. To date, the social engagement preferences and priorities of older adults who live in CCRCs remain under researched. We therefore utilized participatory action research to explore the social engagement goals, processes and solutions of older adults living in CCRCs. An Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach was adopted to explore the perspectives of 25 older adults living in a CCRC (females = 75%; mean age = 85; mean length of stay = 4.3 years). Thematic analysis of interview data identified three main themes, in addition to subthemes, critical to maintaining social wellbeing in a CCRC: 1) meaningful engagement with CCRC committees and clubs, and contributions to community led by those who live there; 2) opportunities and challenges associated with resilient living, as well as end-of life concerns; and 3) a sense of belonging and connectedness contributing to social community and health wellness. The findings suggest that the social engagement of older adults who live in a CCRC can be enhanced by introducing and promoting initiatives that bring joy, a sense of purpose, belonging, and fulfillment. This engagement needs to align with individuals’ preferences and priorities to ensure satisfying lives and a sense of community.