Aging Places: Perspectives on Change in a Cape Cod Community

Abstract

Using data from a community located in Barnstable County (Cape Cod), Massachusetts, this study examines variation in how three groups of residents-nonmigrants, younger migrants, and older migrants-view changes occurring in their town. Although all three groups evaluate community change in negative terms, older migrants are more likely to express concern solely over changes in the physical environment of the community, whereas nonmigrants and younger migrants are more likely to voice opposition to a wider range of changes, including those affecting the social environment of the community. The distinguishing characteristics of older migrants make them susceptible to scapegoating by nonmigrants and younger migrants, suggesting that the traditional local distinction between native Cape Codders and newcomers is being superseded by one between younger and older migrants. Implications of this trend are discussed.