Descriptive phenomenological study on ego-integrity among older people in nursing homes

This study aimed to describe, interpret, and understand the phenomenon of ego integrity among nursing home residents using a descriptive phenomenological approach. Data were collected by conducting in-depth face-to-face interviews with 18 nursing home residents with the aid of a pilot-tested semi-structured interview guide. The authors followed a systematic analytic procedure. Key themes and subthemes emerged when the codes were combined. The responses of the residents were classified under three themes: (i) existential well-being, (ii) future expectations, and (iii) regrets regarding past life stages. The results underscored the important role of ego integrity in structuring one's life in the later years. A lack of ego integrity had resulted in negative perceptions of life, a lack of future plans, and existential suffering. The findings underscore the importance of assessing ongoing temporal changes in the ego integrity of nursing home residents and providing effective programs that enhance their sense of ego integrity.