| Learning Objective #1: Understand the importance of research in older, single women's experiences of transition to supportive retirement communities | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Understand how development of nursing theory in transitions of older, single women can become the foundation for future research and practice |
Significance: The aging population has enormous implications for public spending on health care. The basic need for safe and supportive housing has become increasingly important for this expanding older population, especially single women who comprise 60% of this population (US-Government, 2000). Healthy People 2010, found that 6.2 percent of U.S. housing units, many inhabited by single older women, had moderate or severe physical problems (US-Government, Registry, Prevention, & Health, 1998) and need to be replaced. However, moving to a supportive retirement community is a major transition that influences physical and psychosocial health.
Subject Population : This study explores the transition experience of women, aged 70-85, to a supportive retirement community. It is unknown how health and well-being of older individuals is affected by such a transition.
Research Design: This study, conducted in Southern California, will use the grounded theory framework of Strauss and Corbin. Convenience sampling and snowball sampling will be used as for recruitment.
Instrument : Demographic Data Collection and a semi-structured interview guide will be used.
Procedure: After contact with an individual and screening for inclusion in the research, each woman will be interviewed. Interviews are expected to last approximately one hour and will be audio-taped and transcribed.
Data Analysis: Transcriptions and field notes will be coded line-by-line and analyzed using the grounded theory methods of Strauss, & Corbin and dimensional analysis as discussed by Schatzman. The coding process and analysis will occur simultaneously with further data collection and interviews. Dimensional analysis further enhances the plausibility and consistency of the findings.