The master's thesis consists of theoretical and research part. In the theoretical part I found definitions based on different literature of the acceptance of death, the stages of mourning, what kind of support they can receive at the death of a partner. I have done qualitative research based on ten interviews with casual sample in institutional care and home settings. The population is comprised of men who are more than 65 years old and have lost a partner in old age. The purpose of the research was to find out how they coped with death and mourning, what support they received from family and friends and how life after a partner's death changes over the years. I was wondering how their daily life had changed, how they had dealt with solitude and with their household, and I also asked if their family relationships changed, what professional help they received and what support they would like. The results show that they are not utilized or even misused, by professional assistance. Maybe someone would choose her if it were introduced to them. What they initially feel is shock and sadness, they miss their partner. Some are helped by company and conversation, but at the same time they love to be alone and to think in silence. Professional help should be brought closer to the grieving people.
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