Methods: This study is part of a larger research project on health status and quality of life of Boston public housing residents. In-person interviews were conducted with 196 residents aged 62 years and older. The sample was 38% African American, 22% Hispanic/Latino, 22% Caucasian, 12% Asian American, and 6% Other. The interviews were conducted in English, Spanish and Chinese. Standardized instruments included the SF-36 scales of vitality, bodily pain, and mental health.
Results: Analysis revealed that "social connection" significantly
impacted a number of the health outcomes. Moreover, there were significant
racial differences in how elders viewed their building as a "community."
Of considerable importance is the variation by race in respondents' preferences
that service providers be of the same ethnic and/or language group.
Practice Implications: Findings indicate that the development
of effective service models that enhance elders' quality of life requires
an understanding of the complex issues that comprise this phenomenon of
"aging in place" in public housing. Information about residents'
needs is critical to develop service models that promote linkages between
elders and an appropriate, culturally sensitive mix of services that support
an individual to age in place with maximum independence.