Qualitative study of the role of family experiences in the elderly adjustment

The aim of this study was to qualitatively investigate the role of family experiences in ‎the adjustment of the elderly. One of the factors that plays an important role in ‎reducing the vulnerability of the elderly in the current era is the institution of ‎family. Just as having a family is important to the elderly, the presence of an elderly person is also ‎valuable and rewarding to the family. This qualitative study was conducted in 2017 using the ‎Basic Theory Method. The researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with 18 ‎elderly people in the age range of 65-82 years; referred to nongovernment funded residential aged care facilities, Organization of Agriculture Jahad, and municipal parks in Tehran, so that the data reached the ‎saturation stage. Findings showed 8 main categories including positive and ‎pleasant experiences; recognizing and positive behaviors of‎ parents; constructive and ‎emotional interaction with spouse; satisfactory emotional and internal cohesion of ‎family; successful and transcendent marriage; favorable economic conditions; physical ‎health; and satisfaction with life. The results of this study showed that such factors are the components of family experiences that affect the adjustment of ‎the elderly.‎