Title

EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL ISOLATION ON MENTAL WELL-BEING AND LIFE SATISFACTION AMONG OLDER ADULTS: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY

Author(s)

ALAGENIO, CHELSEA H.

ARCILLA, MILJE MAE R.

BARAYA, KIARA JANE S.

BESIRE, RIGIE LOUIS E.

Affiliation

Misamis University

Degree Program

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Contributor

Revelo, Judy Jane S.

Taghoy, Sammy B.

Lian, Charry Jo P.

Santos, Susan N.

Year

2025

Abstract

With the global increase in the population of older adults, social isolation has become a significant concern affecting mental well-being and life satisfaction (WHO, 2021). This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of four older adults aged 60 and above in Misamis Occidental, Philippines, using a descriptive-phenomenological approach. Guided by Moustakas’ (1994) transcendental phenomenology and Hildegard Peplau’s Interpersonal Relations Theory (1952), the research aimed to understand how older adults perceive, cope with, and find meaning in social isolation. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews and analyzed using bracketing, horizontalization, theme clustering, and textural-structural synthesis. Five themes emerged: Emotional Landscape of Isolation; Coping Strategies and Meaning-Making; Perception of Life Satisfaction and Acceptance; Safety and Autonomy; and Relational Supports and Barriers. Participants revealed emotional struggles such as loneliness and grief, but showed resilience through faith, volunteerism, routines, and community engagement. While autonomy was important, it sometimes heightened their sense of isolation. Limited yet meaningful social connections helped buffer psychological distress. The findings echo the literature emphasizing the emotional and relational aspects of older adults’ well-being (Cudjoe et al., 2020; Chafidoh et al., 2024), and Peplau’s theory highlights the role of supportive relationships in fostering resilience. The study recommends culturally sensitive, community-based interventions that enhance emotional and social support for older adults, especially in rural Filipino settings.

Keywords

life satisfaction, mental well-being, older adults, phenomenological research, social isolation