Participation in community activities through Naturally Occurring Retirement Community (NORC) Supportive Service Programs

摘要: Naturally Occurring Retirement Community Supportive Service Programs (NORC Programs) constitute a national model in the United States of America that aims to benefit older adults ageing place their own homes and communities. One central aspect NORC is provision community activities facilitate adults’ connections with others. Guided by ecological systems theory, we explored from perspectives what influences participation offered Programs, as well meaning social contact such affords. We used data an in-depth interview study 41 residents across seven Program sites greater New York City area. Themes regarding on included individual circumstances (personal desire for activity health status), programmatic factors (relationships staff appeal activities) contexts (appeal other attendees). Perceptions attendees also emerged influence effects participation, which ranged experiencing alone creating independent friendships. Overall, findings indicate programme features combine diverse experiences activities. In addition implications organisational practice, interpret results terms directions future research how community-based organisations can integration later life.