Life Experiences of Older Men Living Alone With Depression

Abstract

As the percentage of older adults living alone increases, social interest has been drawn to this physically, financially, and socially vulnerable group. The purpose of the current study was to gain a deeper understanding of the life experiences of older men with depression who live alone. Eight community-dwelling men aged ≥65 years who lived alone in Korea and had depression were enrolled in this study. Data were collected via individual in-depth interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. Four themes emerged from analysis: Life Trapped in the Traditional Masculine Ideology , Weakening Mind and Body , Lost and Helpless , and Beginning of Communication With the World . Results of this study will be helpful in developing more effective depression intervention programs for older men living alone by increasing community health care professionals' understanding and sensitivity. [ Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 60 (2), 33–40.]

Health-related quality of life of Korean older adults according to age, sex, and living arrangements: a cross-sectional study

“…Multiple factors were reported to be related to the increased risk of depression in older adults living alone. Social isolation and subjective physical and mental weakness have been reported to influence depression among older Korean men living alone ( 31 , 32 ). Widowhood, low social quality of neighbors, and loneliness were associated with the increased risk of depression in older adults living alone in other Asian nations, regardless of sex ( 33 , 34 ).…”