A qualitative research on socialization and loneliness of individuals over 65 in the framework of the concept of healthy aging

Aim: The purpose of the research; The aim of this study is to evaluate the socialization and loneliness of individuals over the age of 65 within the framework of the concept of healthy aging. In this research, it is aimed to examine the loneliness and socialization situations experienced by individuals over 65 years old under different environmental and socio-cultural conditions and to look at the change in the concept of healthy aging in the context of this review. Materials and Methods: The research was designed with the qualitative research method. Semi-structured interview technique was used in the research. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 20 elderly people living in Manisa. In the interviews, a semi-structured interview form obtained as a result of the literature review was used. The collected data were transferred to the MAXQDA qualitative analysis program and thematic analysis was performed. Findings: In this study, in which the loneliness and socialization status of the elderly were discussed through the determinants of the concept of healthy aging, it was determined that the participants' old age experiences were related to their physical health, social environment and economic conditions. In addition, educational status and leisure activities are also effective on loneliness. Conclusions: Protecting the elderly from loneliness and supporting them with a healthy aging approach is very important for a complete well-being. Accurate evaluation of social isolation problems experienced in old age and prevention of loneliness by implementing the concept of healthy aging are possible with professional social work interventions. This research is of great importance in terms of shedding light on the interventions to be planned. Keywords: old age, loneliness, social isolation, healthy aging