Researchers found that assisted living residents’ level of social engagement is often variable and can be influenced by a variety of factors such as state assisted living regulations and community policies.
The paper, published in the Journals of Gerontology, presented data collected from a 3 year multi-faceted study, which included resident and staff interviews as well as analysis of community factors. Researchers found that resident interactions were generally supportive and pleasant. Residents frequently expressed concern for one another and were quick to offer assistance when needed. “Residents in all communities helped one another by pushing wheelchairs, giving directions, monitoring dietary needs and preferences, providing reminders about meals and activities, and assisting with eating,” read the report.
Although interactions were generally positive, researchers found a wide range in the levels of social engagement. For many residents, levels of engagement changed over time. For example, the report mentions a resident who was very isolated when she first moved to the community, but after a staff member encouraged a few outgoing residents to reach out to her, the new resident became extremely social.
The report highlights several factors that can influence residents’ level of social engagement. Some factors are:
- The Ability to Age in Place Assisted living regulations often prevented residents from aging in place. When residents were moved to a nursing home or other setting, relationships with that resident did not continue. Aging in place positively affects relationship building by increasing continuity.
- Effective Programming Structured daily activities allowed a chance for residents to get to know each other. Promoting activity attendance, encouraging interaction during activities, and offering a variety of activities that appeal to specific resident interests helps foster social engagement.
- Thoughtful Table Assignments Mealtimes were extremely important in all communities studied. Researchers emphasized that table assignments should be created based on resident personalities and preferences and should be reviewed for suitability on a regular basis.
- Community Design Conveniently located common areas with comfortable seating and outdoor access promoted social interaction. Having common areas in highly trafficked parts of the community, such as near the dining room, encouraged residents to socialize.
- Staff Involvement Staff involvement helped facilitate familiarity between residents in many cases. Introducing new residents at communitywide meetings, pairing new residents with socially engaged residents who can help them get acquainted, and featuring a resident of the month and resident birthdays in the community newsletter can help engage residents socially.
Researchers emphasized that more research should be done on assisted living residents’ relationships. “The changing AL landscape and heightened demand for care make investigating residents’ social needs and developing strategies to optimize relationships timely and imperative,” read the report.
Read the study’s abstract or purchase the full study Strangers and Friends: Residents’ Social Careers in Assisted Living.
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