Seasonal Variation and Homes: Understanding the Social Experiences of Older Adults

Abstract

There has been limited research on the importance of seasons in the lives of older adults. Previous research has highlighted seasonal fluctuations in physical functioning—including limb strength, range of motion, and cardiac death—the spread of influenza in seasonal migration patterns. In addition, older adults experience isolation for various reasons, such as decline of physical and cognitive ability, lack of transportation, and lack of opportunities for social interaction. There has been much attention paid to the social isolation of older adults, yet little analysis about how the isolation changes throughout the year. Based on findings from an ethnographic study of older adults (n = 81), their family members (n = 49), and supportive professionals (n = 46) as they embark on relocation from their homes, this study analyzes the processes of moving for older adults. It examines the seasonal fluctuations of social isolation because of the effect of the environment on the social experiences of older adults. Isolation occurs because of the difficulty inclement weather causes on social interactions and mobility. The article concludes with discussion of the ways that research and practice can be designed and implemented to account for seasonal variation.

Feasibility of Virtual Tablet-Based Group Exercise Among Older Adults in Siberia: Findings From Two Pilot Trials

“…Seasonal fluctuation has been found to determine the level of physical and social activities of older adults [13], especially in high latitudes where winter can result in a decline of physical functions of older adults [14]. In Siberia, these fluctuations greatly influence the activities of the daily living and the opportunities to engage in activities in general.…”

“…Seasonal fluctuation has been found to determine the level of physical and social activities of older adults [13] leading to less opportunities to go out and interact, especially in high latitudes where winter can result in a decline of physical functions of older adults, such as ankle strength [14]. Recent history has also shaped the lives of older adults in Russia.…”

Snow and Rain Modify Neighbourhood Walkability for Older Adults

“…Li et al (2013) argued for ensuring that ice and water do not build up at the base of curb cuts in winter weather, as this renders pedestrian crossings non-navigable for older adults. Municipalities might also consider alternative designs for curb cuts and pedestrian intersections that facilitate safe mobility for older adults in winter weather (Li et al, 2013; Perry, 2014), even in the most walkable built environments.…”

“…Further research should consider how a range of different weather conditions modify the walkability of built environments and how living in more or less walkable urban, suburban, or rural neighbourhoods attenuates or intensifies the impact of inclement weather on older adult mobility. Town and city planners should be encouraged to build more walkable neighbourhoods that encourage older adults to maintain outdoor mobility and social interaction even in challenging weather conditions (Perry, 2014). It is not beyond the realm of possibility that neighbourhood walkability will become an important community-level coping tool that supports mobility in the very real face of climate change.…”

Quantifying Mobility Scooter Performance in Winter Environments

“…5 Reduced mobility can negatively impact one's quality of life. 8 Therefore, it is crucial that we better understand the performance capabilities of current mobility scooters in winter.…”