Aging at Home: Concerns of Community-Dwelling Older People and Their Interest in Seeking Local Resources and Services

OBJECTIVES: This cross-sectional study examinee health and social concerns among community-dwelling older people, the resources they sought, and factors related to these concerns. METHODS: A convenience sample of 222 Nova Scotians aged 65 or over completed a semi-structured interview using the ACT® Assess, which assess 53 common health and social issues across six domains. Each item was linked to a database of corresponding local resources. FINDINGS: Over 40% of participants reported loneliness, moderate or greater pain, sleep problems, and/or bereavement - all within the Mental Health domain. However, only 32% sought Mental Health resources, compared to over 60% who sought resources for Accommodation and Finances. Participants receiving care showed greater challenges in activities of daily living and mobility. DISCUSSION: Findings suggest a high level of concern, even among a relatively healthy sample, and indicate a progression of concerns from psychosocial and home maintenance issues to mobility and functional challenges.