Analysis of Factors for Continued Community Residence and Involuntary Retention Solitary Senior : Focused on a Latent Class Analysis Approach

As Korea entered a super-aged society in 2025, the proportion of solitary senior has increased, and many hope to “Age in Place (AIP)” within familiar communities. Yet, limited housing, social, and economic resources heighten the risk of involuntary “Stuck in Place (SIP).” Using data from the 2023 National Survey of Older Adults (n=9,554), this study compared determinants of AIP intention between solitaty senior and the others, identified latent subgroups of AIP respondents, and distinguished voluntary AIP from involuntary SIP. Results showed that housing satisfaction, social ties, mental health, digital adaptation, and access to facilities were key predictors. Public support and local engagement were critical for those living alone, while homeownership and medical/transport access mattered more for those living with others. Latent class analysis revealed clear contrasts between vulnerable and resource-rich groups, and escaping SIP was linked to homeownership, social participation, and service accessibility. These findings demonstrate the relevance of the competence-environmental press model in Korea and highlight the need for tailored housing, social, and digital policies to support diverse subgroups of older adults.