Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 PhD Student in Social work group, department of social sciences, Allameh Tabataba’i University

2 Faculty member associat professor - sociology department - Tehran University

3 دانشیار مددکاری اجتماعی دانشگاه علامه طباطبائی

Abstract

The elderly are one of the target groups of social workers.The experience of aging, from the point of view of the elderly, on the one hand reveals the facts that are hidden to us and on the other hand provides us with a deep, inclusive and meaningful understanding of the socio-cultural status of aging in society. On this basis, a deeper understanding of the issues and needs and challenges that the elderly face is essential to adopt and develop appropriate programs to achieve dynamic and health-centric agingThis study is a qualitative study using phenomenological approach to study the life experience of elderly people in Isfahan. The sample was saturated in the target-based theoretical sampling method in 20 cases and then no new data were obtained, thus, by the logic of qualitative research sampling, the same number was sufficient, until a semi-structured interview was conducted.Interview data were analyzed using Phenomenological method in Colaizzi method. According to the findings of this study, the problems, needs and harms of old age perceived by the elderly in four physical, economic, emotional and emotional contexts (disrespect and disregard for the elderly, feelings of loneliness and exclusion, deprivation of children and social domination) and social (Lack of familiarity with modern space and curiosity, the problem of leisure time), as well as the perception of the elderly of these times, were identified in two categories: the feeling of dissatisfaction and appreciation (majority narrative) and the feeling of non-biological satisfaction in aging (narrative of the elderly).

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