Lived Social Life Experiences of Female Elderly People

Authors

  • Stella Appiah Our Lady of Fatima University
  • Safary Wa-Mbaleka Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies

Keywords:

older people, social connectedness, quality of life, disconnectedness, phenomenology, Baguio, Philippines

Abstract

Quality of life is now recognized as one of the new philosophies of health by the World Health Organization, especially among older people. Old age is a process that cannot be stopped but must be protected, promoted, and extended. As the aged population continues to increase, it is essential for quality of life to be emphasized. Promoting societal networking and active involvement is one of the approaches to enhance older people’s health and promote quality of life. The purpose of this study was to examine the lived experiences of social life of older people and the impact of quality of life. Phenomenology was used. Focus group discussion was employed to collect data from 20 elderly people between 65 and 80 years in Baguio City. The study generated six themes, which included family connectedness, spiritual connectedness, social support, social disconnectedness, meaning of quality of life, and community involvement. It is recommended that family members make a conscious effort to maintain connections with their elderly ones through different means such as text messaging and telephone calls, especially when they are physically absent.

Author Biographies

  • Stella Appiah, Our Lady of Fatima University

    Mphil
    PhD in Nursing Candidate
    Our Lady of Fatima University
    Manila, Philippines

  • Safary Wa-Mbaleka, Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies

    EdD, PhD
    Associate Professor, Education Department
    Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies
    Silang, Philippines

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Published

2015-04-01

How to Cite

Lived Social Life Experiences of Female Elderly People. (2015). International Forum Journal, 18(1), 27-46. https://journals.aiias.edu/info/article/view/119

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