Perceptions of social relationships by the oldest old

Abstract

Given that the oldest old are the fastest growing population group worldwide, the importance of studies concentrating on them is evident. The promotion of health and well-being in very old age requires knowledge about the lives of the oldest old. Currently, the knowledge about social lives of this age group is limited, although the pivotal effects of social aspects of life for the well-being of older individuals are well-known. Furthermore, to gain detailed and diverse knowledge, the perceptions of individuals living in very old age need to be considered. Nevertheless, it is particularly this kind of studies that we are currently lacking. \n\nThis study aims at deepening the understanding of informal social relationships of the oldest old by studying the perceptions of home-dwelling nonagenarians about their social relationships. Altogether 44 life-story interviews, conducted in 2012 as part of the Vitality 90+ study, were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. \n\nThe analysis yielded manifold information about social relationships in very old age: experienced restrictions, significance and valued aspects. Most of the experienced restrictions, such as death of loved ones and health, could not have been controlled by the nonagenarians. Significance of social relationships was related to company provided by the social network, help received and given, feelings of joy and grief, and lifelong lessons provided by social relationships. Furthermore, nonagenarians valued having social relationships and not being lonely. Valued aspects were also harmoniousness of relationships, being social and acknowledging other people. \n\nThis study reveals multiple aspects of informal social relationships of the oldest old, and indicates that although multiple restrictions are encountered, social relationships still play an important role in the lives of the oldest old. More qualitative studies concentrating on the social relationships of the oldest old are needed to further enhance our understanding and also to bring out the perceptions of the oldest old individuals in less advantaged positions.

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