Feature Article

Struggle Between Survival and Death: The Life Experiences of Taiwanese Older Adults with Suicidal Ideation

Guey-Hau Wu, RN; Lee-Ing Tsao, DNSc, RN; Hui-Chi Huang, DNSc, RN

  • Journal of Gerontological Nursing
  • May 2012 - Volume 38 · Issue 5: 37-44
  • DOI: 10.3928/00989134-20120307-10
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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to use grounded theory to explore the subjective experiences of suicidal ideation among Taiwanese older adults in the community. Fifteen participants ages 66 to 88 were interviewed, and data were analyzed using a constant comparative analysis method. The Struggle Between Survival and Death was defined as the core category. Loss of loved ones, possessions, and health was defined as the antecedent condition. The older adults struggled between survival and death during a suicidal ideation process categorized as negative emotions without an outlet, reminiscence about past achievements, lingering or persistent suicidal ideations, and hesitation to commit suicide. Lastly, the participants reported experiencing a meaningless existence in their daily lives. It is crucial to provide sensitive support to older adults who have had loss of life experiences, including providing an outlet to express negative emotions, religious support, reminiscence therapy, or a life review.

AUTHORS

Ms. Wu is Instructor and PhD candidate, and Dr. Tsao is Professor, School of Nursing, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taipei; and Dr. Huang is Associate Professor, Department of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Chiayi County, Taiwan.

The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.

Address correspondence to Lee-Ing Tsao, DNSc, RN, Professor, School of Nursing, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, 365 Ming Te Road, Pei Tou, 11219, Taipei, Taiwan; e-mail: leeing@ntunhs.edu.tw.

Received: June 23, 2011
Accepted: January 10, 2012
Posted: March 28, 2012

doi: 10.3928/00989134-20120307-10

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