Experiences of older adults who have lost a child: reflections on grief and for nursing

to understand the experience of the grieving process in older adults who, at any stage of life, have lost a child.

qualitative research involving eight older adults selected using the snowball sampling method. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and analyzed using the Discourse of the Collective Subject technique.

the themes included: Differences between grieving for a child and for other family members; Feelings triggered by death; Duration of feelings and grief; Feelings of grief that remain; and Ways of coping with a child's loss.

although acceptance of loss is possible, longing and absence remain. The importance of faith and support networks in coping with grief was highlighted. Nursing can play an important supporting role in coping with grief. Understanding these experiences is fundamental to providing comprehensive care.