Naslov
Widowhood and Grieving in Old Age

Autori
Štambuk, Ana

Izvornik
Socialno delo (0352-7956) 58 (2019), 2; 125-144

Vrsta, podvrsta i kategorija rada
Radovi u časopisima, pregledni rad, znanstveni

Ključne riječi
loss, social gerontology, social support, bereavement, loneliness, death

Sažetak
In the first part of this work, the characteristics of widowhood in old age and different reactions to loss are investigated. Theoretical approaches to grief that aim to understand the complexity and individuality of each individual in the grieving process and to take into account all factors related to the grieving process follow in the second part, while emphasising the importance, both for professionals working with the elderly and for their family members, of recognising the signs of grief and complications in the forms it may take. Although adaptation to the death of a spouse in old age is considered one of the natural stages of life, it is emphasised that the loss of a spouse represents one of life’s greatest stressors. The consequences of widowhood are discussed, as well as differences in adaptation between men and women, which must be understood if adequate assistance and support is to be provided. Finally, strategies for coping with loneliness as a consequence of widowhood are suggested. The conclusion underlines the importance of social support to all the elderly in bereavement (particularly to those who are severely ill, without family or on a low income and to men) as well as the need to create a social climate in which grieving persons are recognised and accepted in their new role, for which they need time to adapt.

Izvorni jezik
Engleski

Znanstvena područja
Socijalne djelatnosti

POVEZANOST RADA