Living with Physical Limitations: Exploring Adaptive Responses Among Elderly
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37824/rj8kbj42Keywords:
Elderly, Mobility Limitation, Psychosocial Adaptation, ResilienceAbstract
Mobility limitation among institutionalized elderly is a major gerontological concern, contributing to disability, psychosocial distress, and reduced quality of life. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences, psychosocial impact, and adaptive responses of older adults with mobility limitations in an institutional care setting. A descriptive phenomenological qualitative study was conducted with six institutionalized older adults aged 60 years and above. Data were obtained through in-depth semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Colaizzi’s phenomenological framework. Four interconnected themes were identified: fall-related onset of mobility impairment; psychosocial powerlessness characterized by hopelessness and social isolation; adaptive responses including assistive device use and activity modification; and resilience through hope, spirituality, and desire for functional recovery. The findings demonstrate a trajectory from bodily disruption to psychosocial vulnerability and adaptive resilience within long-term care. Mobility limitation in institutionalized older adults is a multidimensional experience involving physical decline, emotional distress, and resilience processes
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