Reflections of those who have lived: Phenomenological perspectives from adults at end-of-life from an Eriksonian lens

Abstract

• There is little research focused on the knowledge that those in the last stage of their lives can offer. The last phase of life brings with it unique wisdom and life advice that can be used to guide all people in their journeys. • The importance of choice in the lives we live, as well as hard work supports the abilities to succeed in valued areas. • Family was stated to be the most important part of these lives; however, with or without family, one also benefits from a sense of accomplishment and pride in themselves. There is little research focused on the knowledge that those in the last stage of their lives can offer. The last phase of life brings with it unique wisdom and life advice that can be used to guide all people in their journeys. The purpose of this study was to provide scholarship detailing advice and learnings of those in this unique and final life stage. Nine participants were interviewed in the year 2021, and transcripts were analyzed in an interpretative phenomenological manner. Main themes of life suffering and values presented with sub-themes including illness, loss, family, faith, and purpose. The importance of choice in the lives we live, as well as hard work supports the abilities to succeed in valued areas. Family was stated to be the most important part of these lives; however, with or without family, one also benefits from a sense of accomplishment and pride in themselves.

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