The lived experience of losing an adult child in older adulthood : an interpretative phenomenological analysis a qualitative study

Abstract

The lived experiences of older adults who have experienced the death of their adult child was explored in this local study. This is under researched, as literature tends to focus on losing a young child rather than an adult child (aged 20 to 64). This qualitative study investigated the ways in which this specific loss impacts older adults through the domains identified in the Biopsychosocial framework. Their subjective experiences and coping mechanisms were also explored. Six participants aged 65 years and older were recruited. Data was analysed via Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Findings indicated that losing an adult child was akin to a journey. Participants reported heavy consequences associated with their child’s death, including anxiety, anger, guilt and intense sadness with crying. Participants noted a deterioration in their physical health and withdrew from their social circles for some time before being able to reengage, thus affecting all three domains within the Biopsychosocial framework. Participants also shared that they had a deep longing for their deceased child. Very few coping mechanisms were noted. Pictures and knowing that the people around them respected their deceased children were comforting. Religion did not appear to reduce distress. Implications for future clinical work were outlined; such as highlighting that possibly, the usual coping systems within such an experience such as religion or family support, may not be of much help when losing an adult child; crying as an important part of the healing process; and that physical aspects were affected. Recommendations for future research such as exploring coping mechanisms; any possible gender differences; and investigating the parent-child relationships of older adult parents who have lost an adult child, and limitations of the research conclude the dissertation.