Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Human Services

Advisor

Dr. Natalie Costa

Abstract

There is a need for more studies examining elderly’s perspective of age-related changes in emotional (anxiety, depression, hope and optimism) and social (interpersonal relationships, social support and level of engagement or activity) factors. There is an increase in psychological needs for older adults, and it is important to explore and enhance knowledge in this field to better serve this population. The purpose of this qualitative research was to describe the lived experiences of elders’ age-related changes in emotional and social factors. The theories and concepts that grounded this study included the activity theory of aging and the continuity theory of normal aging. The key research question for this study explored the lived experiences of elders’ age-related changes in emotional and social factors. For this phenomenological study, eight individuals who met the eligibility criteria were recruited using purposive sampling. Semi structured interviews with open ended questions were used to gather information and a content analysis of the data gathered the following themes (a) desired relationships with friends and family, (b) financial freedom, (c) maintaining independence, (d) alleviation from parental responsibilities, (e) fear of death, and (f) fear of loneliness. Understanding the impact emotional and social distress causes in adults aged 65 and above and the perceived needs to improve their emotional and social health can promote positive social change by serving as the basis to develop interventions addressing their needs and targeted to increase quality of life for this population.

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