Sexuality, Intimacy, and Loneliness in Later Life: How Older Single and Widowed Black Women Seek Support Beyond Family

Loneliness poses a significant risk to the physical and mental well-being of older individuals, making it a pressing public health concern. Particularly for minority groups like elderly single and widowed Black women, the consequences of loneliness can be even more pronounced. To gain deeper insights into the experiences of loneliness and coping strategies used by these women, a qualitative phenomenological research study was conducted, involving interviews with fourteen such individuals. The study revealed four main themes: lonelier with age; looking beyond the family for intimacy; family responses to loneliness; and coping with loneliness. Irrespective of living arrangements, all participants acknowledged experiencing varying degrees of loneliness. Despite having extensive social networks, many struggled with feelings of loneliness, alienation, and a lack of emotional closeness and connection. Consequently, these findings emphasize the importance of addressing loneliness in elderly single and widowed Black women, considering the intersectionality of race, gender, and mental health when assessing the risk of loneliness. Practical and policy implications suggest that professionals and physicians working with this group actively screen for loneliness and develop interventions and psychological support to help these women navigate their feelings of isolation.