Struggle between survival and death: the life experience of Taiwanese older adults with suicidal ideation.
The purpose of this study was to use grounded theory to explore the subjective experiences of suicidal ideation among Taiwanese older adults in the community. Fifteen participants ages 66 to 88 were interviewed, and data were analyzed using a constant comparative analysis method. The Struggle Between Survival and Death was defined as the core category. Loss of loved ones, possession, and health was defined as the antecedent condition. The older adults struggled between survival and death during a suicidal ideation process categorized as negative emotions without an outlet, reminiscence about past achievements,lingering or persistent suicidal ideation, and hesitation to commit suicide. Lastly, the participants reported experiencing a meaningless existence in their daily lives. It is crucial to provide sensitive support to older adults who have had loss of life experiences, including providing an outlet to express negative emotions, religious support, reminiscence therapy, or a life review.
National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taipei, Taiwan.
Guey-Hau
GH
Wu
Lee-Ing
LI
Tsao
Hui-Chi
HC
Huang
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003643:Death; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D059020:Suicidal Ideation; D013534:Survival; D013624:Taiwan