Abstract
Introduction: Loneliness is universal, still very subjective feeling, natural to all human beings and a subjective experience of isolation. Many people may be ashamed of talking about it or admitting they feel lonely, because they are afraid of being stigmatized. The purpose of this study was to explore elderly experiences of loneliness and comparison with the Erikson’s theory.
Materials and Methods: this study was a qualitative research with content analysis approach. The research population was twelve elderly, aged 68-85 years who lived in Hamadan city. Sampling began purposefully and continued until data saturation. To collect data, interview was used. All interviews were tape recorded and transcribed immediately. Data was analyzed using content analysis method.
Results: In total, 187 primary codes, 7 subcategories and 3 main categories were obtained in which, the 3 main categories were feelings of alienation, separation of favorite activities, and fatigue and sadness. Core category or shared meaning was regret with heavy.
Conclusion: Loneliness is common in elderly and associated with adverse health consequences both from a mental and physical health points of view. Therefore, appropriate intervention strategies to reduce isolation using the Erikson’s psychosocial theory can improve elderly quality of life to achieve Ego integrity throughout the life.