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Fayyaz, N., Nanjiba, N., Mahmood, A., Echavarría, J. P. R., & Canham, S. L. (2025, October). Nuances of social integration within aging in the right place for housing precarious older adults in independent housing with onsite support [paper presentation]. Canadian Association on Gerontology 2025 Annual Scientific Meeting, Montréal, QC, Canada.

Abstract

While social integration is a critical determinant of health and wellbeing in later life, there is limited research on how older adults experiencing housing precarity and homelessness navigate and experience social integration within their housing environments. Drawing on 20 semi-structured life course and photovoice interviews with housing precarious older adults residing in independent housing with onsite support, we explored how participants perceive, engage in and construct social integration within their housing environment. Using Reflexive Thematic Analysis, four key themes were identified: (1) From Isolation to Inclusion: Narratives on Social Integration, (2) Space, Place, and Social Integration, (3) Unlocking Pathways to Deep and Meaningful Social Interactions, and (4) Navigating Social Integration: The Vital Role of Autonomy and Choice. Findings revealed that social integration exists along a continuum — solitude to social engagement — with participants expressing diverse preferences. Some valued solitude and independence; others actively sought meaningful connections; many occupied a middle ground engaging in short casual interactions. Additionally, key influences found on social integration included the built and natural environment, opportunities for deep and meaningful interactions, and individual autonomy and choice. This research contributes to conversations on radical relationality and aging by highlighting the nuanced ways older adults with experiences of homelessness and housing precarity creatively navigate and cultivate community, belonging and connection. The findings call for re-imagined housing models with diversity in programs and support services that honour the diverse social integration needs and preferences of this population.