Grey Power September 2019

Negotiating the environment. Photo/123RF
An enabling physical
environment is essential
to support the social
participation of people
aged 85 years living
rurally.
From page 22
central to being able to successfully age in
place and the thought of not being able to
drive in the future was a major concern.
One participant noted that she would
have to move if she couldn’t get around
by herself. “I’d probably move closer to
my children and live in a retirement village,”
she said.
The dynamics of traffic flow can make
it difficult for older people to navigate
the physical environment. A particularly
complex intersection at one end of the
main street was identified as a physical
barrier, whether participants were driving
or walking, forcing many of them to
take a longer alternative route.
Issues with parking, including the lack
of spaces close to amenities and short
time limits, were problematic for several
participants, interfering with essential
errands and their ability to engage with
the community. The group primarily
moved around the community at times
when parking was easy to obtain, with
the exception of those that held a mobility
parking permit.
Our
Home
is Your
Home
2) Maintaining social networks:
Places to go, people to see
The second theme relates to the social
environment – (the collective social and
cultural institutions, patterns and processes
that influence the life of an individual
or community).
The study shows that most participants
had developed enduring and satisfying
social networks, as well as being
actively involved in local organisations,
and felt connected to their community.
Family, friends and neighbours played
a vital role in enabling them to remain
socially engaged. However, while the importance
of family was acknowledged, an
established network of friends and neighbours
was more highly regarded.
Maintaining friendships was an important
factor in deciding where to live.
Social networks of friends, rather than
family, have been shown to contribute
to resilience in older people. One participant
noted that, when you get older,
friends are what matter. “Family is
nice, but they are all busy. Your friends
are your age and you understand one
another,” she said.
- By DAVID PORTER
When support is required to continue
living life to the full, Radius Care aims to make
moving into aged care, and a new home, as smooth as possible.
Like your own home, our person-centred care ensures residents
experience companionship, community and comfort prioritising
their well-being as well as their medical needs. We believe that
great care is also about providing the best lifestyle possible,
supporting every individuals hobbies and interests, and
making our home their home.
If you have any questions or would like to know more,
please feel free to visit any of our 22 facilities nationwide.
You’re always welcome.
WE CAN HELP
0800 737 2273
radiuscare.co.nz
Leaders in Care