Community-Dwelling Older Adults’ Perspectives on What Matters Most: Findings From an Exploratory Inquiry

Communities across the nation are currently grappling with unprecedented increases among their older adult populations and are bracing for even greater growth in the decades ahead. This study utilized multiple methods of qualitative inquiry to explore what matters most to older adults aging in a community where approximately one-third of the residents are age 65 or older. Findings suggest five key themes: (1) Preserving and promoting health and well-being; (2) continuing living arrangement and lifestyle; (3) maintaining autonomy and independence; (4) engaging in meaningful social opportunities; and (5) accommodating community assets. Implications for community-based programs serving older adults are discussed.