Abstract:

While several published studies have examined the interactions of health status and social support in the general population or elderly segment of the population, there has been no reported study that specifically examines the health status and social support of frail elderly women, aged 85 years and older. This study reports on the findings of a research study that examined a group of frail elderly women, residing in the community. It focuses on why and how these women are able to live independently. The relationships between health status and social support and between health status and the process of ageing are explored. The study reveals the importance of social support assessments of this group as a prerequisite to effective health care policy, professional health education programmes, and community resource development.