The inner ache: an experiential perspective on loneliness

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Gerontology
• Philosophy

Background:

• Loneliness is a subjective and distressing experience.
• Theoretical frameworks are crucial for understanding loneliness.
• The elderly, especially in nursing homes, face heightened risks of existential loneliness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine theoretical approaches to conceptualizing and researching loneliness.
• To emphasize phenomenological and existential perspectives for understanding subjective distress.
• To stimulate further research into existential loneliness among the elderly.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of theoretical approaches to loneliness.
• Analysis of phenomenological and existential perspectives.
• Exploration of the elderly's vulnerability to existential loneliness.

Main Results:

• Phenomenological and existential perspectives offer insights into the subjective nature of loneliness.
• Loss of meaningful roles in old age contributes to existential loneliness.
• Altered perception of time is linked to the loss of meaning.

Conclusions:

• Existential loneliness is a profound and common experience, particularly for the elderly.
• Further research is needed to address the complexities of loneliness.
• Understanding the subjective and existential dimensions is key to alleviating loneliness.