The meaning of home for aging women living alone in North Eastern Ontario

Abstract

The experience and meaning of home for older, community dwelling women, was investigated. In the world of gerontology there is a paucity of knowledge about those in their eighth and ninth decade, and this becomes more pronounced among older women. With the older demographic expanding and resources being directed at keeping seniors in their home- a solid knowledge base is required. This study built on the knowledge that exists around home, aging at home, formal care, and the vulnerabilities of aging in two ways. First, the literature around home was synthesized with an evolutionary concept analysis which served to focus further research. Secondly, an interpretive description study added to the knowledge of home by bringing to light the precariousness of formal and informal care and the effect this precariousness has on the meaning of home. The knowledge built in this study has the ability to inform policy, organizations, education, and individual providers as well as highlighting areas for further research.