Loneliness and boredom in residential care: Voices of older adults

OBJECTIVE: Older adults may experience loneliness and boredom in residential care. The purpose of this study is to extend understanding of the experiences of older adults in residential care and identify factors that residents themselves believe contribute to loneliness and boredom. In addition, I aim to identify the strategies used to cope with these experiences and provide recommendations to enhance the quality of life in residential care. METHODS: A phenomenological qualitative study was conducted through participant observation, in-depth interviews with 24 residents and key informant interviews with 10 staff members. RESULTS: The findings emphasise the pervasiveness of loneliness and boredom in residential care despite facilities' efforts to provide activities and support. Staff and family support helped to alleviate loneliness and boredom and participants employed individual coping strategies. DISCUSSION: Health professionals and social workers should recognise loneliness and boredom as issues and prioritise residents' individual needs and preferences to minimise the risk of loneliness and boredom.