Examining the gerotranscendence experiences of informal caregivers of women aged 65 and over

Objective: The aim of this thesis is to understand women aged 65 and above who engage in informal caregiving, to examine their gerotranscendence experiences, and to explore the emotions evoked by caregiving. Method: The research was conducted in the Konyaaltı district of Antalya between December 2022 and March 2023. The sample consisted of 11 women aged 65 and above, residing in Konyaaltı, who were accessed through snowball sampling. A qualitative research method was employed. To facilitate analysis, interviews were audio-recorded. The findings were analyzed inductively using thematic analysis. The study was interpreted through a phenomenological approach, focusing on how individuals ascribe meaning to their experiences, events, and phenomena. Results: As a result of the coding process, three main themes "The Profile and Challenges of Female Caregivers," "Emotions," and "Gerotranscendence Findings" and a total of 15 sub-themes associated with these main themes were identified. Conclusion: While the influence of societal teachings on informal caregiving cannot be denied, the core of the research highlights the "love" participants feel for those they care for. Signs of gerotranscendence were observed among caregiving women. However, the challenges of caregiving and the almost complete absence of free time limit the signs of gerotranscendence in women aged 65 and above. Key words: older women, caregiving, gerotranscendence