Publication
Title
Living in a nursing home : a phenomenological study exploring residents loneliness and other feelings
Author
Abstract
Background: Loneliness is suggested to be one of the most prominent feelings nursing home residents are struggling with, and is related to various negative health outcomes and impaired quality of life. While there has been some research on social predictors and the impact of depression and loneliness on social relationships in nursing home residents, there has been very little qualitative research in investigating their own perception of such feelings. Objective: To explore general feelings among nursing home residents, with a specific interest in loneliness in order to develop strategies for support and relief. Method: This phenomenological study used an interview guide with open-ended questions to ensure focused in-depth data collection. Data were obtained through face-to-face interviews (n = 11). Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used for data analyses. Results: Loneliness is more than being alone among others. The residents unfulfilled need for meaningful relationships plays a crucial role in feelings of loneliness. Losing their self-determination due to institutionalisation was strongly related to loneliness and caused strong emotions, such as grief. Conclusion: It is vital that healthcare professionals are aware of these feelings and pay much attention to resident preferences while developing (individualised) interventions to prevent loneliness.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Scandinavian journal of caring sciences. - Stockholm
Publication
Stockholm : 2018
ISSN
0283-9318
DOI
10.1111/SCS.12599
Volume/pages
32 :4 (2018) , p. 1477-1484
ISI
000454105400024
Pubmed ID
30070385
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (open access)
Full text (publisher's version - intranet only)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 14.08.2018
Last edited 02.10.2024
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