Strategies for Coping with Loneliness of Older Individuals whose Spouses Have Passed Away: Isparta Case Qualitative Research

Aim: This research aims to examine the processes of coping with loneliness of older individuals aged 60 and over whose spouses have passed away. Method: This study was conducted using the interview technique, one of the qualitative research methods. Within the scope of the research, in-depth interviews were held with a total of 20 participants, 10 female and 10 male participants from Isparta city center. Results: Analyzes were made using MAXQDA 24. As a result of the interviews, a total of 258 sentences were coded. A total of 4 basic areas were created while coding. These general areas are: “Changes After Loss” (f= 97, 36.60% of all statements), “Daily Life Activities and Instrumental Life Activities” (f= 59, 22.87% of all statements), “Social and Professional Support” (f= 32, 12.40% of all statements), “Strategies for Coping with Loneliness” (f= 70, 27.13% of all statements). A total of 42 special sub-domains within the general sub-domains were created. Conclusion: According to the results obtained from the research, individuals whose spouses have passed away should aim to benefit from services that will help manage this process, such as counseling and support groups, in order to cope with loneliness.