Make Mine Home: Spatial Modification With Physical and Social Implications in Older Adulthood

This article emphasizes the role of material culture in housing transitions.

Methods.
Based on an ethnographic study (January 2009–May 2012) of older Americans (n = 81) relocating, this study utilized interviews, participant observation, and review of documents.

Results.
Personalization is both a reflection of a previous self as a homeowner and a projection of a future self as extensions of temporality intertwine with commodification processes. Through creative appropriations of their housing, residences are personalized to promote physical or social functionality or because of preference.

Discussion.
Given the findings, the transitions involved in relocation must be supported by greater understanding and facilitation of key issues of personalization and its importance to older adults’ decisions to relocate.

Source: Journals of Gerontology: Series B Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences - April 20, 2015 Category: Geriatrics Authors: Perry, T. E. Tags: Original Article Source Type: research