Purpose: In recent years, medical science has developed new technology, improved medications, and sophisticated medical-surgical treatments. While increasing life span, these innovations also bring issues related to quality of life: life beyond retirement, loss of friends and family, loss of independence, and life with chronic illness. Elder women are especially vulnerable to such issues. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the wisdom and experiences of spirited elder women, and ways they develop inner strength to “keep going” while finding meaning and purpose in their lives. Theoretical/Conceptual Framework: In Watson’s Theory of Human Caring (1997), transpersonal caring relationships move beyond the self to deeper connections with the spirit that tap into healing possibilities and potentials. Use of this theory enhances exploration of elder women’s experiences in building connections and relationships with others to achieve meaning and purpose in life. Subjects: The purposive convenience sample includes 7 groups totaling 35 elder women identified as “strong” or “spirited”. Each woman was experiencing one or more chronic health or illness concerns. Method: Focus group methodology was used. Women in seven focus groups shared a brief life review, and the meaning of inner strength and spirit in their lives. Guiding questions were used to facilitate sharing; responses were clarified and validated as necessary. Each group interview was audio taped and transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using Colaizzi’s method. Results: Of several themes resulting from this study, this paper focuses on the theme, “Reaching Out to Others: Transcending the Self” Conclusions: Experiences of these elder women are a legacy for others coping with chronic illness and quality of life issues. Findings will contribute to development of nursing interventions enhancing quality of life, as well as giving nurses a richer, deeper view of one of the important ways women live with inner strength.
Session #1177 - Womens' Health
The 29th Annual MNRS Research Conference (April 1-4, 2005)