Aging in place is a concept that refers to the ability of older people to live in their own homes and communities, maintaining independence and a sense of security. This study explores the meanings of aging in place from the perspectives of older people in two New Zealand communities. The research involved 121 older adults, aged 56 to 92, who participated in focus groups and interviews. The findings reveal that older people value the ability to make choices about where and how they age in place. They emphasize the importance of a sense of attachment, connection, and familiarity with their homes and communities. Aging in place is linked to a sense of identity, independence, and autonomy, as well as social connections and the ability to access services and resources. Participants highlighted the importance of a safe and supportive environment, including access to health services, transportation, and social opportunities. They also emphasized the role of community in providing a sense of belonging and security. While some participants viewed aging in place as a way to remain in their homes, others recognized the need to move for various reasons, such as health or personal preferences. The study also found that aging in place is not just about the physical home but also about the social and cultural environment in which one lives. The research underscores the importance of considering the broader context of aging in place, including the role of neighborhoods and communities in supporting older people. It highlights the need for policies and services that support the diverse needs and aspirations of older people, including access to social networks, transportation, and health services. The study also emphasizes the importance of involving older people in the planning and decision-making processes related to aging in place. Overall, the findings suggest that aging in place is a complex and multifaceted concept that requires a holistic approach to support the well-being and independence of older people.Aging in place is a concept that refers to the ability of older people to live in their own homes and communities, maintaining independence and a sense of security. This study explores the meanings of aging in place from the perspectives of older people in two New Zealand communities. The research involved 121 older adults, aged 56 to 92, who participated in focus groups and interviews. The findings reveal that older people value the ability to make choices about where and how they age in place. They emphasize the importance of a sense of attachment, connection, and familiarity with their homes and communities. Aging in place is linked to a sense of identity, independence, and autonomy, as well as social connections and the ability to access services and resources. Participants highlighted the importance of a safe and supportive environment, including access to health services, transportation, and social opportunities. They also emphasized the role of community in providing a sense of belonging and security. While some participants viewed aging in place as a way to remain in their homes, others recognized the need to move for various reasons, such as health or personal preferences. The study also found that aging in place is not just about the physical home but also about the social and cultural environment in which one lives. The research underscores the importance of considering the broader context of aging in place, including the role of neighborhoods and communities in supporting older people. It highlights the need for policies and services that support the diverse needs and aspirations of older people, including access to social networks, transportation, and health services. The study also emphasizes the importance of involving older people in the planning and decision-making processes related to aging in place. Overall, the findings suggest that aging in place is a complex and multifaceted concept that requires a holistic approach to support the well-being and independence of older people.