Older Adults with Schizophrenia Finding a Place to Belong

Abstract

Older adults with schizophrenia experience a high prevalence of comorbid conditions. The perspective of older adults with schizophrenia about their physical health has not been considered as a contributing factor. This paper presents findings from a grounded theory study that explored this perspective among 28 older adults with schizophrenia. Analyses revealed that finding a sense of belonging supported feeling physically healthy. A sense of connection with others and a physical place were associated with supporting a sense of belonging. Awareness of the facilitators of and barriers to finding a place to belong is key to improving the physical health of this vulnerable population.