Dept. of Social Work, Faculty of Social Sciences, Allameh Tabataba’i University, Tehran, Iran
10.22126/jap.2025.11805.1839
Abstract
Background: Older adults experience numerous life transitions. One of the most impactful is relocation from their previous residence. This study focused on a specific type of relocation – the transition from home to a residential care facility – and aimed to understand this transition as a phenomenon. Method: A phenomenological approach was employed using semi-structured interviews. Data saturation was achieved through interviews with 13 individuals aged 60 and above, possessing the cognitive capacity to respond, and with lengths of stay ranging from one month to two years. Results: Data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step method, resulting in the identification of five themes and fourteen concepts. These themes included a reduction in social networks, social withdrawal, engagement with depressive symptomatology, diminished control over life, and compromised physiological functioning. Findings indicated that individuals transitioning to residential care facilities experience a constellation of negative changes in their physical, psychological, and social well-being. Specifically, they experience psychological distress, including depression, sadness, and a loss of perceived control. Physiologically, sleep patterns and physical capabilities decline. Furthermore, relationships with their former social networks are significantly reduced, and they lose meaningful roles within their families and communities. Conclusion: Relocation to a residential care facility appears to result in a loss of previous lifestyles, transforming individuals from multifaceted, socially engaged beings into individuals perceived as ill and requiring care. This transition is associated with consequences such as a decline in quality of life and, potentially, a reduced hope for the future.
Mohammadi, E., & Seifi Shooreh Deli, Z. (2025). Understanding the Relocation Phenomenon to Nursing Homes Based on the Experiences of Older Adults. Aging Psychology, 11(3), 309-293. doi: 10.22126/jap.2025.11805.1839
MLA
Elham Mohammadi; zahra Seifi Shooreh Deli. "Understanding the Relocation Phenomenon to Nursing Homes Based on the Experiences of Older Adults". Aging Psychology, 11, 3, 2025, 309-293. doi: 10.22126/jap.2025.11805.1839
HARVARD
Mohammadi, E., Seifi Shooreh Deli, Z. (2025). 'Understanding the Relocation Phenomenon to Nursing Homes Based on the Experiences of Older Adults', Aging Psychology, 11(3), pp. 309-293. doi: 10.22126/jap.2025.11805.1839
VANCOUVER
Mohammadi, E., Seifi Shooreh Deli, Z. Understanding the Relocation Phenomenon to Nursing Homes Based on the Experiences of Older Adults. Aging Psychology, 2025; 11(3): 309-293. doi: 10.22126/jap.2025.11805.1839
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