Abstract
This study qualitatively explored the psychological conflicts and life adaptation of older men living alone in communities at risk of disappearing and examined approaches to supporting continued residence while respecting their sense of pride.
The participants had a strong desire to continue living in their communities, rooted in their pride as heads of household and their sense of responsibility toward their homes and local communities. At the same time, the loss of transportation options and declining physical functioning caused considerable psychological fluctuation as they struggled between maintaining independence and accepting dependence on others. In contrast, social roles, hobbies, and interactions with family members living at a distance served as protective factors against social isolation.
To support their continued living in the community, it is essential to rebuild a comprehensive community support network that integrates psychological and environmental support. Psychological support should include fostering reciprocal relationships based on a sense of mutual assistance, rather than uniformly treating older adults as recipients of care, and providing opportunities for them to maintain meaningful social roles and personal pride. Environmental support should include community infrastructure that enables mobility and access to shopping even after older adults relinquish their driver's licenses.
