This study is qualitative in nature using ethnographic methodology. Ethnography is a method in which researchers observe the lives of individuals who live, work, and visit in these settings. In-depth interviewing will be conducted with representatives of four stakeholder groups --residents, their families, staff, and executives/administrators -- to better understand the individual and group dynamics in each setting.

 Four types of senior housing environments reflecting distinct levels of residential living have been selected for study: an active adult community with independent living; two continuing care retirement communities with at least three levels of care; two settings with both independent and assisted living components; and two settings offering both assisted and nursing home care.

At the conclusion of the study, the research team will share the key findings with interested participants. Rules of confidentiality prevent investigators from reporting on the specific information collected at a given residential site, since no individual or setting can be identified in any reports. However, the grouped data may be useful to administrators, researchers, and policymakers by suggesting ways to improve the experiences of those residing in senior housing.

 This project is part of the Collaborative Studies of Long-Term Care, a program of research on the quality of life for residents and the types of care provided in varied long-term care settings. Sponsored by the National Institute on Aging and other founders, more than 450 residential units and 4,000 residents in four states have now participated in this research program.

 This study is directed by Dr. J. Kevin Eckert, in conjunction with Drs. Leslie Morgan, Robert Rubinstein, and Sheryl Zimmerman, and conducted by a team of skilled ethnographers.