This review aims to critically evaluate the recent literature on the impact of living alone on the well-being of older adults. A literature search was completed in order to identify relevant peer reviewed articles. Fifteen studies were reviewed, forming a heterogeneous group which included: comparing well-being and loneliness in older adults living alone with those living with others, exploring the experiences of older women living alone, predictors of quality of life in those living alone, investigating gender differences, comparing rural with urban living, the impact of social networks and illness on well-being, and the impact of being house-bound on sense of self. Conflicting evidence emerges. In general, living alone appears to have a negative impact on well-being, though not exclusively. Further research is suggested to explore the personal experiences and meanings of their lives to individuals who live alone.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:bl.uk/oai:ethos.bl.uk:514093 |
| Date | January 2009 |
| Creators | Frazer, Soraya Michele |
| Publisher | University of Birmingham |
| Source Sets | Ethos UK |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Electronic Thesis or Dissertation |
| Source | http://etheses.bham.ac.uk//id/eprint/341/ |
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