Power in Old Age: A Qualitative Study

With regard to the increase in the elderly population in Iran and across the globe and their risk of suffering from chronic disease, this study was carried out with the aim of evaluating the view point of the Iranian elders about the concept of power. In this qualitative study which was carried out using a content analysis method, 26 participants were selected using goal based sampling, and were examined over a 12 month period. Data were collected through interviews. The main categories that emerged from this qualitative study, included: independence; being aware of personal changes; coping; perceived self ability; role playing; and mastery/owning. Understanding the viewpoint of the elderly regarding the structure of power, provides a firm basis for nursing care. In this study, perceived satisfaction and being in control which leads to an enhancement in the quality of life, forms the basis of power structure. The findings of this study can be used to design a model for empowering Iranian elderly.