Exploring the meaning of a good life for older widows with extensive need of care: a qualitative in-home interview study

Abstract

Introduction Studies of older women’s life transitions is rare but gains relevance as the aging population, with older women as the majority, expands. Purpose To explore the meaning of a good life for older widows with extensive home care needs. Materials and methods Semi-structured interviews were carried out with eleven women, aged 80 and over (82–95 years, mean 90) residing at home with extensive care needs (≥4 daily sessions, averaging 2.5–6 hours, mean 3). Data were analysed by reflexive thematic analysis. Results The theme “This Day in My Home, the frame of my life” reflects the women’s experience of a good life. A good day imbued them with hope, trust and security, carrying them forward with the assurance that night would usher in a new day. However, there were moments when life was merely about navigating daily challenges. During such days, the women felt trapped in time, unsafe and lonely. Conclusion A day at home may seem static, yet it mirrors life’s dynamism, evolving with shifting circumstances. Older widows navigate challenges while maintaining their sense of self, independence, and connection to home. These findings have implications for aged care, recognizing the multifaceted aspects of life and the centrality of home.

Keywords

• aged 80 and over
• independent living
• nursing care
• women’s health
• thematic analysis
• aging
• home care services
• life change events
• home health nursing
• widowhood
• qualitative research