Analysis of Components of Meaning of Life in Elderly

This study aimed to analyze the meaning of life experience in the elderly. The method of the present study was qualitative and using a grounded theory approach. For this purpose, ten older adults (6 females and four males) of Shiraz city, who were over 65 years old with the ability to speak Persian and didn’t have any severe affective disorders, were selected by theoretical sampling method. Then, semi-structured interviews were conducted with them to reach the finding. A systematic and analytical approach of Strauss and Corbin was used. Based on the analyses, in open and axial coding, the total strategies used to achieve meaning in life in the elderly were four final categories: Spiritual Excellence, Attention and Self Care, Exchange of Love, and Social Dynamics. In selective coding, the components were included under the strategic section. The present study showed that the view and perception of the elderly about the meaning of life is multidimensional, and these factors play a role in giving meaning to the life of the elderly.