Exploring the Link Between Place Attachment and Social Wellbeing in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Cox Mary, Beatty Jennifer, Hill Patrick
Primary Institution: Washington University in St. Louis
Hypothesis
Older adults with increased attachment to St. Louis will report higher levels of social well-being.
Conclusion
The study found that place attachment is positively correlated with several aspects of social well-being in older adults, but not all indicators of well-being are improved.
Supporting Evidence
- Place attachment is positively correlated with social well-being and belonging.
- Significant correlations were found between attachment to St. Louis and social acceptance, integration, contribution, and actualization.
- Social coherence was not significantly associated with place attachment.
- Place attachment was not associated with self-reported intergroup anxiety.
Takeaway
Older people who feel a strong connection to their city are likely to feel better socially, but it doesn't help with every problem they might face.
Methodology
The study used survey data and conducted correlational analyses to examine the relationship between place attachment and social well-being.
Limitations
Place attachment does not improve all well-being indicators, indicating that further research is needed.
Participant Demographics
Participants were aged 65-85 and resided in St. Louis.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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