AM2:P26 - Relocation process experiences and adaptation to a new dwelling: opportunities for active and healthy ageing among people 55 years and older
2. Health sciencesPia Hovbrandt1, Marianne Granbom1, Magnus Zingmark1, Susanne Iwarsson1
1 Dept. Health Sciences, Lund University, Sweden
Introduction
Housing is important for active and healthy ageing, but knowledge about when and how people start to reflect and act upon housing choices as they age is scarce. The aim of this study was to explore perceptions of the process of relocation and the personal experiences of the underlying reasons for the decision to move.
Methods
In-depth interviews focusing on the process of relocation was conducted with 15 people aged 55+ in Sweden, three and nine months after a move. A first interview had a retrospective perspective to capture the reasoning process behind the decision to relocate, and requirements and expectations regarding the dwelling. A second interview focused on how expectations had been fulfilled, and thoughts of ageing and health related to home.
Results
The findings illustrate relocation as not necessarily a stepwise journey, but an ongoing process were the informants' reasoning about relocation goes back and forth including pros and cons with a move. Feelings of freedom with less responsibility for a property were experienced as positive, while leaving a part of life behind was troublesome for some. Nearby services and nice and safe surroundings were highlighted as important. To settle in another dwelling could be challenging but also an opportunity to a fresh start. Overall, the informants were pleased with the dwelling they moved to, but some had already moved to yet another due to unfulfilled needs or expectations.
Conclusions
Relocation emerges as a dynamic, non-linear process where multiple aspects are weighed in the decision to move. Opportunities to take care of yourself and at the same time live an active life should be considered by those who tailor housing alternatives for the ageing population.