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

Abstract

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 characterised loneliness as a linear experience that is both pathological and easily relieved with external intervention. The purpose of this paper is to 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

The authors draw on two different studies where the 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. The authors 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 characteristics of loneliness in older people may help explain why community-based interventions to diminish it may be so challenging.

Citation

Sullivan, M.P., Victor, C.R. and Thomas, M. (2016), "Understanding and alleviating loneliness in later life: perspectives of older people", Quality in Ageing and Older Adults, Vol. 17 No. 3, pp. 168-178. https://doi.org/10.1108/QAOA-06-2015-0031