Existential loneliness and meaning-in-life in the lived experience of nursing home residents

Abstract

This study expands our understanding of how existential loneliness and meaning-in-life might be connected in the lived experience of nursing home residents. A secondary analysis of interviews with nursing home residents (n = 8) was conducted. The analysis starts inductively using template analysis, and ends deductively, with a theoretical framework guiding the process. Existential loneliness and meaning-in-life are prominent in nursing home residents’ everyday lives and relate to relationships and vulnerable situations involving (1) being seen, (2) trust in life and (3) looking forward. To enhance existential well-being in nursing home residents, facilitating meaningful relationships and experiences is essential.