Elderly Care: An Ethnographic Study of Loneliness in Islamabad

Abstract

This ethnographic research investigates the loneliness that older people in Islamabad, Pakistan, suffer. This research exposes the diverse and subtle ways in which older people perceive and navigate loneliness in a constantly changing urban environment through in-depth interviews and participant observation. The study emphasizes the effects of social isolation, bereavement, and shifting family dynamics on older people's mental and emotional health as well as how cultural and religious beliefs influence how older people perceive and deal with loneliness. The study also looks at how family, community, and institutional care, as well as other forms of caring, may either lessen or exacerbate loneliness in the elderly. A qualitative research methodology was used for this ethnographic study. Various sampling methods were used. Males and females were chosen using the convenient sample method, while females were chosen using the snowball sampling approach, and purposive sampling also used to clarify the research concerns, qualitative approaches such as participant observation, informal discussions, key informant interviews, case studies, and in-depth interviews were performed. The results of this study demonstrate the significant negative effects of loneliness on older adults, including deteriorating physical health, a higher chance of dying young, and a loss of dignity and purpose in life. Furthermore, the study emphasizes how important social ties and community involvement are in reducing loneliness, underscoring the need for a paradigm change in elder care that places a higher priority on meaningful relationships and social support. This project seeks to improve the quality of life for this vulnerable demographic by addressing the core causes of loneliness via the creation of targeted treatments and support services that priorities the voices and experiences of older individuals.