[Adaptation to loss of partner in older widows. Typology]

In a study of fifty older widows living independently we examined whether or not these women had managed to fulfill their needs and desires in relationships several years after the husband's death. The ways in which the widows had achieved congruity on their relational needs (or standards) was also analyzed. A typology of four styles of adaptation has been developed based on two dimensions: 1) the amount of activity undertaken to maintain, intensify or initiate relationships, and 2) the amount of congruity experienced in reference to needs for intimacy. The four types have been described, as well as the variations in life satisfaction within each type. The most successful type of adaptation involves both an active stance in maintaining relationships and cognitive restructuring of ideals concerning intimacy.