Experiencing the dissolution of a romantic relationship in older adulthood : an interpretative phenomenological analysis

Abstract

This study explored the lived experience of romantic relationship dissolution in older adulthood. This study aims to contribute new knowledge, as this phenomenon has not been explored locally, offering insights that may inform counselling psychologists. A qualitative design using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was employed to examine it. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews with five older adults (four females and one male), recruited via local organisations and relevant Facebook groups catering to older adults. The findings highlighted the emotional complexity of romantic relationships in older adulthood. While participants initially experienced positive aspects of their romantic relationship they described one-sided romantic relationships, betrayal, and feelings of entrapment gradually overshadowed the relationship’s earlier benefits. The impact of ending their romantic relationships disrupted multiple domains of the participants’ lives, including routines, social connections, intimacy, and anticipated futures. Despite these challenges, participants described a parallel process of growth, positioning romantic relationship dissolution as both a site of vulnerability and an opportunity for renewed autonomy. Rebuilding social support networks, engaging in community organisations, and pursuing new hobbies were described as beneficial strategies in navigating the aftermath of a RRD. The findings underscore the importance of clinical interventions that assist OAs in exploring the broader psychosocial consequences following a RRD, including disruptions to social networks, and in fostering confidence in their decision making to reduce potential self-doubt. Future research is recommended to examine underrepresented romantic relationship types, particularly the RRD of shorter-term or nonmarital romantic relationships in older adulthood to capture a broader range of experiences within the local context.