A new publication from the Institute of Behavioral Research at TCU explores a question many families face: Why don’t older adults always use services designed to help them age safely at home?
Published in the Journal of Aging & Social Policy, the article, From Referrals to Relationships: Reframing Engagement as an Implementation Strategy and Outcome in Age-Friendly Care, examines how older adults engage with programs intended to support aging in place.
The research, connected to the Age-Friendly Integrative Mobile Services (AIMS) project, suggests that simply offering services is not enough. While transportation, referrals, and access matter, the study finds that trust, personal values, and meaningful relationships play an equally important role in whether older adults choose to participate and stay engaged.
In other words, support services work best when they feel personal—not just available.
By highlighting the importance of relational connection and alignment with individual values, the study offers insight for communities, providers, and policymakers seeking to make aging-in-place services more effective and equitable.
Read the full article:
