Experiences of occupational justice for residents of an Australian retirement village: A case study

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted daily life worldwide, with public health measures restricting social interactions, mobility, and access to meaningful occupations. Retirement villages, as increasingly popular housing options for older adults, provide structured environments that supports social participation and well-being. Previous research has examined the benefits of retirement village living, yet little is known about how the pandemic affected residents’ occupational engagement and justice. This study investigated how residents of an Australian retirement village engaged in daily occupations during the early years of the pandemic, focussing on the impact of disruptions on their routines and overall well-being. Methods: Both qualitative and quantitative data was collected. Findings: Nine residents completed the survey and two (‘Sophia’ and ‘Leonie’) also undertook semi structured interviews. Four themes emerged: (1) doing—residents sought to maintain meaningful occupational engagement, often adapting activities to meet public health measures; (2) being—motivation and capabilities influenced participation, with some facing financial constraints and health barriers; (3) becoming—residents demonstrated resilience and adaptability, though opportunities for growth varied; and (4) belonging—social connectedness within the village supported well-being, though some faced challenges in sustaining relationships. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of flexible and socially supportive environments in promoting occupational justice for older adults, particularly during periods of disruption. While retirement villages offer structured participation opportunities, individual experiences are shaped by personal, social, and financial factors. Future efforts should focus on enhancing inclusive and adaptable engagement opportunities, ensuring all residents can participate equitably, regardless of health, mobility, or financial constraints.