The relationship between older adult migration and destination characteristics in Georgia

Abstract Older adult migration patterns are shaped by distinct sets of factors for intrastate versus interstate and younger (65–74) versus aged (75+) older migrants. Moving decisions relate to individual factors and the destination's characteristics, including the climate, amenity, and cost of living. Previous studies have rarely integrated destination characteristics such as long-term care (LTC) facilities, affordable housing, or geriatricians. This study addresses this gap by examining older adult migration by age group and migration type. We proposed a variable structure describing six living environment categories of destination counties and further investigated the relationship between migrants and destination characteristics. We identified geographical patterns of migration and used linear regression and decision tree models to analyze migrants' destination variables. Results indicated four subgroups of older migrants have different high-high clusters in or near the Atlanta region and low-low clusters in South Georgia. Linear regression models quantified the relationship and indicated variables such as LTC facility bed and affordable housing availability should be considered in older adult migration analysis. Decision tree models revealed that different variables are associated with certain county groups, such as core Atlanta and rural counties. Our findings highlighted the variety of variables shaping the migration of older adult subgroups.