A Study on Korean Late-Middle and Old Aged’s Perception of Dwelling in Later Life According to their Intention for Aging in Place

The objectives of this study is to suggest ways for Korean elderly to continue having a stable in where they previously lived by comparing and analyzing perceptions and opinions on the dwelling in later life in relation to their intentions of aging in place. In order to achieve the objective, a survey was conducted on 434 individuals who are considered late-middle-aged or elderly, with ages 52 and above, from January to March 2014. The surveys researched on the intention of aging in place, reasons behind aging in place, preparation for decrepitude, perception on elderly communities, and value of dwelling in later life. The analyzed results are as follows: in the case of the group of people with intentions of aging in place, the group with the intention to age in place has low intentions to utilize the residences, but have strong thoughts on ownership. Therefore, assistance must be given so that they can spend the rest of their lives in their current homes by repairing and remodeling inconvenient sections. Second, these people generally think positively about senior housing; therefore, a small-sized cohabitation directed to elderly individuals of the region may be suggested. Third, a high proportion of them have a spouse or is an elderly living alone, and they search for a family-centered life in their later years. Therefore, a program that will allow them to continue living in their regions with their children, or even if they live apart from their children, a regional program that will continue the come-and-go of their children may be considered.