sameness

The anticipation of new digs is celebrated throughout our lives; how exciting to find the perfect space, begin anew, and venture outside of our familiar landscape. For the vulnerable, critically ill or elderly the reality of moving is risky at best. There have been studies as early as 1963 in which the mortality rate during the year following the move of 121 elderly women was three times higher than expected.
Aldrich C, Mendkoff E. Relocation of the aged and disabled, a mortality study. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 1963; 11:185-194.

Illustrations © Barbara J Holzapfel

A study in 2000 documented the effects of a move from a county home in rural England to a new nursing facility of 269 residents. The study did not show an increase in post-tranfer deaths, however this particular move was unique in it's structured timeline. Patients were prepared for the move up to 18 months prior to the move and many arrangements were made surrounding the move itself. What did stand out though was the significant increase in mortality in the year before the move.




Why would the difference in surroundings have such a profound impact on an individual? Do the spaces and places we live support us in ways we have yet to understand?