Creating 'home': A phenomenological study on place transitions of culturally diverse older women

There are many problems that exist specifically for women, as they grow older. Because of changing circumstances, many older women realize that they must relocate to alternative forms of housing. For some this may be a choice; for others it may be a necessity due to changes in health status, losses and/or other decreased resources.; The purpose of this study was to determine the values that impact the lives of women in their older adult years as exemplified by their attachment of meaning to their homes following moves to other places of residence. The following research question guided this study: ‘What effect does a changed environment or place transition and the attempt to create a new home have on the quality of life as viewed from the perspective of an aging, adult woman?’ Women for this study came from a variety of countries and cultural backgrounds: French, Hispanic, German, African-American, Swedish, Irish, Finnish, English, Italian, Jewish, Egyptian/Islamic and Chinese.; By understanding how these women view themselves, how they adapt to change and how they value people, places, activities and resources, I seek to make an impact on curriculum aimed at educating students and professionals in more authentic and effective methods of caring for this population in order to enhance the quality of their clients' lives during transitions.; The White House Conference on Aging (WHCoA) reviewed emerging societal problems resulting in what has been termed, “the graying of America” as people live longer than they have at any other time in history (Plunkett, 1995). Speaking at a national conference, Plunkett (1995) postulated, “The accelerated growth of the aging population has implications for income, long-term care, housing, and other policy issues, since this group will likely live with disabilities.”; Health professionals can better assist in these transitions when they understand how these women value their homes and the environments in which they live. If we can develop curriculum that will equip health care workers with the skills, knowledge and understanding of individual values, these professionals will be able to more adequately provide support to older women who face transitions to new residences.