Social Support at Community Centers: Its Meaning in the Lives of Senior Citizens

Research surrounding older adults, social support, and emotional well-being are richly researched topics. However, literature is devoid of qualitative studies and research focusing specifically on community centers and older adultsâ social networks, which are integral for understanding the growing needs of older adults in todayâ s society. Guided by the theoretical frameworks of phenomenology, activity theory, and ecological theory, four in-in-depth interviews were conducted and then coded for themes. The central themes highlighted family connection, connection with others, resiliency, helping others, type of activity, restoring self, community connection, exploration, convenience, and life stages. Suggestions for future research and possible impacts for clinical practice are discussed.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science

Level thesis:degree_level

masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Human Development

Department dc:contributor.department

Human Development

Grantor dc:publisher

Virginia Tech

Year dc:date.issued

2009

Author dc:creator

• Dodson, Amy Catherine

Chair dc:contributor.committeechair

• Huebner, Angela J.

Committee members dc:contributor.committeemember

• Hendrickson, Edward L.
• McCollum, Eric E.
• Sayre, Julia B.

• older adults
• social support
• community centers

Statement dc:rights

• In Copyright

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

Dc Identifier Other

etd-06102009-185319

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:vtechworks.lib.vt.edu:10919/33512