The experience and meaning of home for older, community dwelling women, was investigated.
In the world of gerontology there is a paucity of knowledge about those in their eighth and ninth
decade, and this becomes more pronounced among older women. With the older demographic
expanding and resources being directed at keeping seniors in their home- a solid knowledge base
is required. This study built on the knowledge that exists around home, aging at home, formal
care, and the vulnerabilities of aging in two ways. First, the literature around home was
synthesized with an evolutionary concept analysis which served to focus further research.
Secondly, an interpretive description study added to the knowledge of home by bringing to light
the precariousness of formal and informal care and the effect this precariousness has on the
meaning of home. The knowledge built in this study has the ability to inform policy,
organizations, education, and individual providers as well as highlighting areas for further
research.Masters of Science (M.Sc.) in Nursin
