Understanding and alleviating loneliness in later life: perspectives of older people

Quality in Ageing and Older Adults,Volume 17, Issue 3, September 2016. Purpose There is extensive empirical literature that has sought to establish the prevalence of, and risk factors for, loneliness and social isolation in later life. Traditional empirical gerontological approaches have characterized loneliness as a linear experience that is both pathological and easily relieved with external intervention. In this paper we explore the potential of qualitative interview data to reveal the possible complexities in understanding loneliness, including conceptual considerations for the dynamic and multi-dimensional aspects of loneliness.

Design/methodology/approach We draw on two different studies where our purpose was to qualitatively examine the meaning of loneliness in the lives of older people and how they understood loneliness in the context of their daily life (N=37).
Findings Interviews with ‘lonely’ older people revealed that loneliness is a complex and dynamic experience. We also identified a range of internal and external factors that contribute to vulnerability for loneliness as well as resources to alleviate it. Originality/value The dynamic and multi-dimensional characteri stics of loneliness in older people may help explain why community-based interventions to diminish it may be so challenging.

Source: Quality in Ageing and Older Adults - July 27, 2016 Category: Geriatrics Source Type: research