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A Qualitative Investigation of the Self-Perceived Health Behavior Changes in Seniors After Their Transitions Into a Retirement Home

Purpose/Aims: It is important for seniors to engage in positive health behaviors to reduce the incidence of health-related consequences associated with aging. The purpose of this research study was to examine self-perceived changes in physical activity, nutrition, and alcohol consumption behaviors of seniors living in a retirement home through consideration of previous behaviors and self-perceptions of behavior changes. Design: A qualitative research design was used for this study. Methods: Semistructured one-on-one interviews were conducted with 9 Canadian women living in a retirement home. Results: Two key themes, each with 3 subthemes, highlighted the various factors that influenced changes in health behaviors. The 2 themes consisted of (a) aging and adapting and (b) the transition: give a little to gain a lot. Conclusions: Participants’ insights revealed the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, the influence of the social environment on health behaviors, and the nutritional sacrifices of retirement living. Future research should investigate ways in which nurses can assist seniors in enhancing health behaviors throughout transitions into retirement homes.