Mixed Methods Study of Social Engagement in Assisted Living Communities: Challenges and Implications for Serving Older Men

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to explore unique experiences and challenges for older men in assisted living (AL) communities. Although evidence suggests that men may socialize differently from women, little is known about how social engagement is experienced by men in long-term care settings. A sequential mixed methods design was used in that a quantitative study (N = 82; men = 21) was followed by qualitative in-depth interviews (N = 29; men = 9). Participants were selected from eight AL communities in a Southern state. Results indicate that men's social worlds are limited and AL practices do not favor men's preferences. Practice implications in AL communities are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Assisted living
• social engagement
• older men
• mixed methods

This research was supported by a grant from John A. Hartford Geriatric Social Work Faculty Scholars program. The authors acknowledge and note appreciation for the cooperation of the assisted living communities and residents who participated in this study.