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Adapting to Retirement Community Life: Changes in Social Networks and Perceived Loneliness

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 June 2015

Dimity A. Crisp ,
Tim D. Windsor ,
Peter Butterworth  and
Kaarin J. Anstey
Dimity A. Crisp*
Affiliation:
Centre for Applied Psychology, University of Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia National Institute for Mental Health Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
Tim D. Windsor
Affiliation:
School of Psychology, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
Peter Butterworth
Affiliation:
Centre for Research on Ageing, Health and Wellbeing, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
Kaarin J. Anstey
Affiliation:
Centre for Research on Ageing, Health and Wellbeing, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
*
ADDRESS FOR CORRESPONDENCE: Dr Dimity Crisp, Centre for Applied Psychology, Faculty of Health, University of Canberra ACT 2601, Australia. Email: [email protected]
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Abstract

Improved social relationships and connectedness is a frequently cited benefit of retirement community living. However, few studies have prospectively investigated changes in loneliness or social networks following relocation. This study involved 83 Australians (aged 57–90 years) relocating to independent living units within a retirement community. A prospective longitudinal design was employed whereby data was collected prior to relocation, and 1, 6 and 12 months post relocation. Comparisons were made with a sample of community-dwelling (N = 549) residents of the same age. Individual characteristics (e.g., personality characteristics) associated with change were also explored. Results indicated reduced loneliness and increased neighbour support networks following relocation. A reduction in contact with friends was also observed. This study provides an important contribution to our understanding of the initial impact of transitioning into a retirement community on personal relationships. Through exploring factors associated with successful transition, we can begin to understand the characteristics of those individuals most likely to thrive in this type of environment.

Keywords

relocation and transitionhousingsocial support
Type
Research Article
Information
Journal of Relationships Research , Volume 6 , 2015 , e9
Copyright
Copyright © The Author(s) 2015 

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