Shaping and reinforcing personal views of aging among older adults: the role of non-kin social interactions.

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVES

Older adults' personal views of aging (VoA) can shape health and well-being outcomes. This study explores how non-kin social interactions within a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) influence the development and reinforcement of personal VoA before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND

METHODS

This qualitative study was nested within an ongoing ethnographic project in a Midwestern U.S. CCRC. Data included 22 resident interviews contextualized by 2 months of ethnographic fieldwork and participant observation. Interviews and field notes were analyzed using thematic analysis to explore how non-kin social interactions affect the multidimensional aspects of VoA, including losses and growth in physical functioning, cognitive abilities, and socioemotional experiences.

RESULTS

Findings show that non-kin interactions played a dual role in buffering against and reinforcing negative VoA. They buffered residents by replenishing social networks, reducing isolation, encouraging health behaviors, and fostering solidarity. At the same time, peer and staff interactions reminded residents of decline and death, reinforcing stereotypes and leading to othering and patronizing behaviors. These dynamics mirror prior studies yet highlight the unique salience of non-kin ties in CCRCs. The timing of data collection suggests that the pandemic amplified rather than fundamentally altered the benefits and risks of peer influence on VoA.

DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: Personal VoA is multidimensional and sensitive to social environments. Friendships and non-kin ties are pivotal in shaping how older adults interpret their own aging, with potential to both promote and undermine positive VoA and well-being.