Spatial solidarity among older adults in age-related housing

Abstract

Ageing-in-place policies encourage older adults to live at home as long as possible; however, this challenges the abilities of both formal care and informal help. Utilizing the results of my research, I introduce the term spatial solidarity to describe the help that older individuals give each other in age-related housing. One starting point for solidarity is the ability to relate to others. In age-related housing people understand the challenges they face because of aging, although giving reciprocal help might not be possible due to a variety of challenges people face including illness. Helping may be exhausting for those who provide the help and furthermore may cause clashes between helpers and authorities. The results show that solidarity is connected to spatiality in many ways. I have introduced three spatial points that have an influence on solidarity and vice versa: relational space, everyday spatialities and affective qualities. In relational space, solidarity can change the spaces we live in but also the spaces can create solidarity. Furthermore, solidarity can change spaces both physically and through social relationships. Through everyday spatialities solidarity creates spatial patterns in everyday life and has an influence on everyday decisions. Solidarity is affective in the sense that it emerges in spaces where discussions are made about values and norms. Furthermore, when people show solidarity towards each other, it may influence others. Spatial solidarity amongst older individuals fills the gap between any inadequacy in the form of the home care and the needs of the residents. However, the spatial solidarity between older adults is precarious and may change due to the physical conditions of the people. Furthermore, the main responsibility for care of older individuals should not lie with other older people.