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Updated: Sep 21, 2025
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Validation of a Psychosocial Intervention on Body Image in Older People: An Experimental Design
Published on: May 31, 2021
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Embodied experiences and existential reflections of the oldest old.
Brianne van Rhyn1, Alex Barwick2, Michelle Donelly2
1Southern Cross University, Southern Cross Drive, Bilinga, QLD 4225, Australia.
Journal of Aging Studies
|June 2, 2022
Summary
Older adults over 85 experience evolving identities and meanings through embodied aging. Gerotranscendence theory highlights their need for reflection, solitude, and relationships in late life.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Existential Phenomenology
- Embodiment Theory
Background:
- Understanding the lived experiences of individuals over 85 is crucial for addressing existential issues.
- Existential phenomenology and embodiment theory provide frameworks for exploring late-life experiences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the embodied experiences of individuals aged 85 and above.
- To understand how this age group makes sense of existential concerns.
- To explore the influence of corporeal aging on identity and meaning.
Main Methods:
- Utilized existential phenomenology and embodiment theory.
- Conducted in-depth interviews with twenty purposively selected participants aged 85+.
- Analyzed interview data using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis.
Main Results:
- Identified that ways of being, relationships, and worldview continue to evolve in advanced old age.
- Found that Gerotranscendence theory effectively describes these lived experiences.
- Highlighted features such as increased need for reflection, positive solitude, and meaningful relationships.
Conclusions:
- Corporeal aging significantly influences identity, meaning-making, and the experience of the lifeworld in very old age.
- Embodied experiences in individuals over 85 are dynamic and shaped by evolving existential perspectives.
- Gerotranscendence offers valuable insights into the psychological and social adaptations in advanced late life.
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