"You Never Get Used to Loneliness" – Older Adults' Experiences of Loneliness When Applying for Going on a Senior Summer Camp. Issue 8 (17th November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Larsson, Kjerstin; Wallroth, Veronika; Schröder, Agneta
• Is Part Of: Journal of gerontological social work. Volume 62:Issue 8(2019)
• Page Start: 892
• Page End: 911
• Publication Date: 2019-11-17
• Subjects: Loneliness -- qualitative analysis -- quality of life -- social care; Social work with older people -- United States -- Periodicals; Geriatrics -- Periodicals; 362.6
• DOI: 10.1080/01634372.2019.1687633
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0163-4372

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The aim of the present study was explore why the informants were feeling lonely and considered themselves to be in need of attending a senior summer camp, and how the informants were experiencing loneliness before they went to the senior summer camp. Interviews was made with nineteen older adult people (15 women and 4 men). A phenomenological inspired approach was used for the analysis of the interviews. Eight themes resulted: Hard to make new friends, Other circumstances making it hard to be social, Feel very lonely even if they lead rich social lives, Loss of loved ones, Do not want to do things alone, Friends make a difference, Do not feel lonely but need a change and Loneliness occurs at certain times. Through this analysis, we have gain insights to better understand loneliness as a multifaceted phenomenon that is associated with both personal circumstances and social situations. Many of the informants experienced being very lonely, even if they lead rich social lives. The experience of loneliness was connected to not having anyone they can turn to in confidence or to share experiences with and the need to belong to something or the need of a change in everyday life.