Exploring the Normality of the Complexities of Later Life in Aged Homes: A Review

Abstract

Dependency on aged care homes is unusually becoming a viable option for elderly couples these days, which is unconventional to the Asian way of life. The perception of the aged care home, perceived as an institution, has gradually shifted over the years and continued to evolve as elderly couples have become more open to this option to ascertain their independence. Though scholarly researchers have conducted studies on elderly life in aged care homes, there is no evidence of research on elderly couples’ mundane life in aged care homes specifically addressing the complexities of institutional interference in the togetherness, end of life, privacy, sexuality and intimacy of their physical and emotional necessities. Therefore, this article addresses this research gap. It employs an in-depth systematic literature review to address the issue and unveils important insights on the body of knowledge. The findings reveal the complexity of elderly couples’ challenges in dealing with institutional interference, as well as the importance of autonomy and privacy.