2024 Volume 20 Issue 1 Pages 131-141
Objectives: This study aimed to clarify positively how perceptions of living space affect the restructuring of life during the transition to home.
Methods: We conducted fieldwork on nine older adults with disabilities living in urban areas and suburbs who were discharged from the hospital after receiving rehabilitation, and analyzed their subjective experiences regarding “housing and ways of living.”
Results: Initially, they felt a sense of openness, but experienced a transformation into an obstructive system due to a sense of insufficiency in daily activities, rationalization by care, and internalized social norms. On the other hand, when the involvement or event of the open system acts on the person, the aspect of introspection and active involvement in the unique living needs and living environment as well as the promotion of the reconstruction of the meaningful living space.
Conclusions: This study found that older adults with disabilities struggle with feeling at home after transitioning to home-based care due to physical challenges and shifting caregiver relationships. Interventions based on everyday activities can help to redefine these space and relationships. Continuous support is crucial for the adaptation process.
