Internal experience of an aging self: A grounded theory study on women's aging awareness beyond midlife

Awareness of one's own aging is a critical psychological process that shapes adaptation and well-being in later life. For women, age awareness is influenced by gendered experiences such as bodily changes, menopause, and shifting social roles. This study aimed to develop a grounded theory explaining how women aged 50-75 construct and adapt their awareness of aging through everyday life contexts.

This study was guided by constructivist grounded theory, informed by symbolic interactionism and social constructionism. Nineteen in-depth interviews were conducted between 2021 and 2023. Data were analyzed using constant comparative methods, including initial and focused coding, memo writing, and theoretical integration.

The core category, internal experience of an aging self, emerged as the central adaptive process. Initially not aware of one's own aging, participants gradually developed an emerging awareness, often followed by confusion as they struggled to interpret the changes. Internalization involved mirroring aging through self and close others, reflecting on the normal life cycle, and managing oneself in accordance with age-related changes, ultimately leading to embracing aging with psychological balance. Some faced emotional turmoil-triggered by chronic conditions, negative body image, and financial or role insecurity-and developed a negative outlook on one's future self, reflecting disruption in the internalization process.

These findings suggest the importance of gerontological nursing interventions that support emotional resilience, reflective adaptation, and self-directed aging. Tailored strategies that facilitate women's internalization of aging may promote psychological well-being and agency in later life.