Perceptions and Experiences of the Frail Elderly: Definitions of Family, Home and Independence

Projections anticipate that the frail elderly, individuals who are 85 years old and older, are the fastest growing sector in all developing nations and in particular in the United States.  Majority of the elderly live in non-institutional settings, however, more than 15% of them require services and some accommodations to support their current lifestyle. The number of elderly of individuals requiring institutional support and or assistance with daily living is rising. The services available to this age group can include two types of support within the home: instrumental support for activities of daily living such as shopping and cleaning and personal care support with activities of daily living such as eating, dressing and moving within the home. Additional services are offered through institutions and may range from adult daycare services, graduated assisted living experiences, nursing home care and hospice care. Extended family and friends may provide some of the social and instrumental support needed as many of this age group are single and/or widowed. By this point in their lives, the frail elderly have often responded to life changes that have influenced family structure, the physical home and the perception of need and acceptance of assistance. Modifications in the community that have addressed access for individuals with disabilities are now benefitting those with difficulties due to age. This mixed methods study explored the experiences of the frail elderly in the mid-Atlantic region of the United States. Data collection included individual interviews with open ended questions and a short quantitative survey. Perceptions of independence, definitions of home and family, and knowledge and use of services and accommodations were explored. Implications for policy and service provision will be discussed.