SELF-IDENTIFIED STRENGTHS AMONG ADULTS AGING SOLO WITH EARLY DEMENTIA

Abstract

Abstract People with Alzheimer’s and related dementias require increasing assistance with basic life activities, yet one in three lives alone (i.e., is aging solo). Drawing on a strengths-based perspective, this study seeks to identify barriers and facilitators to successful aging among adults who are aging solo with cognitive impairment or early dementia. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 15 adults aging solo with a diagnosis of cognitive impairment or early dementia (age 48-81, mean 69; 80% female; 86% white; 13% black; 7% Hispanic) and used a hybrid inductive/deductive thematic analysis approach to analyze the data. Participants identified self-advocacy, friendship networks, financial resources, and institutions (e.g., assisted living) as potential assets that could address future care needs. Participants described an identity as self-sufficient, fear of being a burden, and worries about exploitation as barriers to help-seeking. Facilitators to care-seeking from friends, neighbors, and others included a belief that helping is rewarding for others, being able to provide reciprocal favors, and framing care-seeking as self-advocacy. Conclusion: Adults aging solo with early dementia face a number of challenges but also exhibit numerous strengths and can use a diversity of skills, attitudes, relationships, and tangible resources to address increasing care needs.