In my thesis, I explored the experience of loneliness among older people in a home for
older people and the role of social work in identifying and reducing loneliness in a
home for older people. Loneliness represents a significant social and emotional
challenge that can affect the quality of life, mental health, and sense of connectedness
of older people. In for older people, loneliness may occur despite daily contact with
other people, as it is often associated with losses, changes in the living environment,
and a shrinking social network. The theoretical part of the thesis focuses on old age
and ageing, loneliness in later life, institutional care for older people, and the role of
social work in residential care homes. Special attention is given to the various factors
that contribute to the feelings of loneliness and to the importance of social support in
maintaining quality of life in old age. In the empirical part, I focused on the qualitative
research. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews with six
residents of the Home for older people Bežigrad Ljubljana. The collected data were
analysed using open and axial coding. The findings indicate that residents experience
loneliness in different ways. The main factors that contribute to loneliness include the
loss of significant others, changes in the living environment, reduced contact with
family members and friends, the transition to institutional care, and certain
characteristics of life in a home for older people. Loneliness is expressed through
various emotional and behavioural responses, while relationships with other people
and participation in activities may also play a significant role in shaping the experience
of loneliness. The results further show that social work does play an important role in
providing emotional support, encouraging social inclusion, and creating opportunities
for conversation and interpersonal connection. This thesis contributes to a better
understanding of loneliness in institutional settings and highlights the importance of
social work in strengthening social inclusion, support, and the quality of life of older
people.
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