여성 독거노인의 외로움 경험

Experiences of Loneliness among Older Women Adults Living Alone

Purpose: This is a phenomenological study exploring experiences of loneliness among older women adults who are living alone. Methods: Study participants were eight older adults who are living alone and they shared their experiences of loneliness. Data were analyzed by the Colaizzi’ phenomenological method. In-depth personal interviews were done from May 1 to August 1, 2014. Results: Based on this study, 5 categories and 10 cluster of themes were emerged. The 5 categories were as followed: preparing death alone, living alone, missing people, feeling sorry for uncaring children, and seeking something to lean on. Conclusion: This study implied that older women adults who are living alone suffer from sorrowfulness and preparing their end of life in sorrow. Therefore, we should reflect the identified meanings of the loneliness in this study to create support systems for older women adults living alone in the community.