FOSTERING CONNECTIONS: THE ROLE OF SENIORS CENTERS IN THE LIVES OF AFRICAN AMERICAN OLDER ADULTS AGING IN CLEVELAND

摘要

Purpose: The vast majority of research on senior centers has focused on the utilization of services (e.g. meal and wellness programs) and the effectiveness of these services to improve health outcomes and decrease institutionalization. However, the social connections that individuals make within senior centers and the potential impact that these connections have on health and other related outcomes are often overlooked. The purpose of this study was to examine the role that senior centers play in fostering social interactions between older African American adults aging in Cleveland, OH. Further, this study explored the meaning that these relationships have for older adults. Design and Methods: Observations took place at a single center in an urban neighborhood in Cleveland, OH. All of the seniors attending this center (N=30) were African American. Over 150 hours of ethnographic observations were recorded to collect data on the interactions, behaviors and dialogue between older adults attending senior centers. Data was analyzed using grounded theory techniques for emergent themes. Results: Four themes emerged that relate to social connections and relationships formed by older adults within senior centers: 1) marshalling social supports, 2) gaining purpose, 3) shared meanings, and 4) discussion of late life stressors (e.g. social losses). Implications: Findings indicate that senior centers offer a useful space for older adults to relate to and connect with one another. Such social connections may help to buffer the unique stressors faced by disadvantaged and minority older adults (e.g. poverty, health issues, access to food).