Journal article
Embodied experiences and existential reflections of the oldest old
Journal of Aging Studies, Vol.61, 101028
06/2022
PMID: 35654552
Metrics
85 Record Views
UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
This output has contributed to the advancement of the following goals:
Source: InCites
Abstract
The aim of this study was to learn more about the embodied experiences of people over 85 years and to gain a better understanding of how they make sense of the existential issues faced at this unique stage of life. This research is philosophically and methodologically underpinned by existential phenomenology, in particular embodiment theory, which allows exploration of everyday experiences and the personal meanings attributed to them. In-depth interviews with twenty purposively selected individuals were analysed using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. Findings indicated that ways of being, relationships with others and one's place in the world continue to evolve into late life. Gerotranscendence theory best encapsulates lived experiences, with salient features including an increased need for deep reflection, positive solitude and meaningful relationships, among other features. This research provides new insights into how identity, meaning and the experience of the broader lifeworld are influenced by corporeal ageing.
Details
- Title
- Embodied experiences and existential reflections of the oldest old
- Creators
- Brianne van Rhyn - Southern Cross UniversityAlex Louise Barwick - Southern Cross UniversityMichelle Donelly - Southern Cross University
- Publication Details
- Journal of Aging Studies, Vol.61, 101028
- Identifiers
- 991013017034302368
- Academic Unit
- Allied Health and Midwifery; Faculty of Health
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article