Mental health as a prerequisite for functioning as optimally as possible in old age: A phenomenological approach

Abstract

Aim: To describe the impact of mental health on the ability to function optimally among older adults experiencing mental health issues.

Design: This study had a descriptive qualitative design.

Methods: Six older females with a Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) score of ≥8 on either of the subscales (depression or anxiety) participated in individual interviews. All data were analysed using a phenomenological approach influenced by Giorgi.

Results: The phenomenological analysis led to a structured synthesis comprising the following three themes: (a) life situations affecting mental health, (b) consequences of mental health in everyday life and (c) strategies for maintaining mental health.

Keywords: mental health; older adults; optimal functionality; phenomenological analysis; qualitative.