Experiences of loneliness among the very old: the Umea 85+ project

Authors:
GRANEHEIM Ulla H., LUNDMAN Berit
Journal article citation:
Aging and Mental Health, 14(4), May 2010, pp.433-438.
Publisher:
Taylor and Francis

This study is part of the ongoing Umea 85+ project, which focuses on people aged 85 years and over to examine successful ageing as well as threats against successful ageing. The losses associated with becoming old include the loss of friends and family members, which may contribute to experiences of loneliness. This study aimed to elucidate experiences of loneliness among the very old who live alone. The participants were 23 women and 7 men, aged 85-103 years, who were interviewed about their experiences of loneliness. The text was subjected to qualitative content analysis. The descriptions of loneliness were twofold: on the one hand, living with losses and feeling abandoned represented the limitations imposed by loneliness; and on the other, living in confidence and feeling free represented the opportunities of loneliness. The findings indicate that experiences of loneliness among the very old are complex, and concern their relations in the past, the present, and the future. The article concludes that experiences of loneliness among the very old can be devastating or enriching, depending upon life circumstances and outlook on life and death.

Subject terms:
loneliness, quality of life, very old people, ageing;
Content type:
research
Location(s):
Sweden
Link:
Journal home page
ISSN online:
1364-6915
ISSN print:
1360-7863

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