All humans inherently exist in solitude. This condition can result in a deep sense of loneliness that arises from an awareness of the temporariness of life, otherwise known as existential loneliness. Certain stages of life can induce existential loneliness more than others, such as the end stages of life. To better understand how existential loneliness results in elderly patients, Eriksson’s theory provides a framework for suffering. Eriksson’s theory relates bodily pain to physical suffering and shame and humiliation to mental suffering.

In a qualitative analysis of interviews with elders in residential care, home care, and palliative, mental suffering in all settings was related to shame and decreased freedom. Existential loneliness was determined when patients experienced limited freedom due to being more dependent on others. When bodily pain resulted in them asking others for help, they felt like a burden. One patient explained that they would “beg for help” from others but wished they could perform the task on their own. Additionally, existential loneliness was seen when illness and treatment resulted in shame for who they had become. Another patient described they “have to sneak out and cry” due to shame of incapability.

Care providers play an impactful role in alleviating suffering which can influence existential loneliness in elderly patients. To ease suffering, Eriksson emphasizes a person-centered approach that prioritizes caring holistically for and along with a person. An awareness of ethics of caring involves acknowledging personal values to understand others. Care should also aim to ease guilt and shame in others by allowing an open atmosphere to support their needs. Lastly, caring for a patient holistically establishing a trusting relationship with a balance of power. Providing adequate care to decrease suffering using a person-centered approach is recommended to decrease existential loneliness in elderly patients.

Sources:

Larsson, H., Beck, I., & Blomqvist, K. (2023). Perspectives on existential loneliness Narrations by older people in different care contexts. International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-Being