Parental Bereavement in Older age: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

Abstract

Parental bereavement is often considered one of the most harrowing life experiences. Yet, little is known about losing an adult child in older age. In this qualitative, descriptive study, nine interviews lasting 45 to 120 minutes were conducted with parents who were 65 years or older at the time of their adult child's death. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed by two researchers independently. Four main themes were identified: disbelief, injustice, uncertainty, and readjustment. The themes were then compared and contrasted with the extant literature to support validity of the findings. The results have implications for future research and practice.

Keywords

bereavement grief child loss parental bereavement geriatric bereavement

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