"Something To Live For" Experiences, Resources, and Personal Strengths in Late Adulthood

ORIGINAL RESEARCH
published: 31 October 2019

doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02452
“Something to Live for”: Experiences,

Resources, and Personal Strengths
in Late Adulthood
Pninit Russo-Netzer1* and Hadassah Littman-Ovadia2
1
Department of Counseling and Human Development, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel, 2Department of Behavioral Sciences
and Psychology, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
Due to increased life expectancy, the population segment of older adults has grown the
fastest. The global phenomenon of population aging raises important questions regarding
successful, positive, active, and meaningful aging. Given that aging is often characterized
by declines in physical and mental health and increased risk for social isolation and
depression, and given that the concept of well-being in old age is both elusive and
complex, the present study explored how aging is experienced through a “bottom-up,”
open-ended approach. Thirty-one in-depth semi-structured personal interviews were
conducted with adults aged 60 and above in order to explore the question: what concerns
Edited by: older adults in their day-to-day living, and what are their perceived resources? The findings
Hyemin Han,
University of Alabama, United States illuminated three prominent themes: (1) central concerns described by the participants
Reviewed by: as characterizing their experience at this life stage; (2) strategies employed by the
Jacqueline Ann Mogle, participants to cope with concerns and to live a meaningful life in old age; and (3) resources
Pennsylvania State University,
and character strengths that facilitate coping strategies and enable thriving. Theoretical
United States
Jonathan Davidov, and practical implications of the findings are discussed.
University of Haifa, Israel
Keywords: aging, adulthood, well-being, character strengths, existential concerns, qualitative methodology
*Correspondence:
Pninit Russo-Netzer
[email protected]
INTRODUCTION
Specialty section:
This article was submitted to Advances in medicine and medical technology have led to a continuous rise in life expectancy.
Health Psychology, Due to the expansion of the lifespan, the population segment of older adults grows fastest.
a section of the journal Worldwide, the proportion of people age 60 and above is growing faster than any other age
Frontiers in Psychology
group. In 2025, there will be a total of 1.2 billion, and by 2050, there will be about 2 billion
Received: 14 August 2019 people over the age of 60 [WHO (World Health Organization), 2002]. This global phenomenon
Accepted: 15 October 2019 of population aging raises important questions regarding aging well. In the last decades, aging
Published: 31 October 2019
well was conceptualized by different theoretical frameworks as active aging [WHO (World
Citation: Health Organization), 2011], as well as healthy, positive, optimal successful, and meaningful
Russo-Netzer P and Littman-Ovadia H
aging. These different indicators of positive aging highlight different indicators of positive
(2019) “Something to Live for”:
Experiences, Resources, and Personal
psychological functioning such as quality of life, social engagement, meaning in life, positive
Strengths in Late Adulthood. emotions, and life satisfaction. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore older
Front. Psychol. 10:2452. adults’ own experiences of their actual aging, their perceived resources that enable them to
doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02452 cope with their concerns and challenges in their day-to-day living.
Frontiers in Psychology | www.frontiersin.org 1 October 2019 | Volume 10 | Article 2452

Russo-Netzer and Littman-Ovadia Experiences and Resources in Late Adulthood
Challenges and Well-Being in Old Age holistic examination of concerns and challenges experienced
The aging process comprises a key transitional phase in one’s in old age is missing, including the ways and personal resources
life, at which age-related challenges and the relative proximity with which these challenges are addressed.
of death (Erikson, 1968) involves recurrent experiences of
loss and decline in central aspects of life, such as family, Resources in Old Age
friends, life transitions, capacities, and physical condition (e.g., The integration of positive psychology and the development in
Greenglass et al., 2006; Sundström et al., 2018). These experiences the study of positive aging, alongside more traditional research
press existential issues, such as fear of death, existential in the field, is becoming more probable with the advancement
vacuum, and social isolation (e.g., Turner and Lloyd, 1999; of medical care and generally higher quality of life (Lieblich,
Cicirelli, 2006), and contribute to an overall sense of loneliness 2014). The focus on improving current functioning and increasing
(Graneheim and Lundman, 2010). well-being affords renewed in-depth impetus to research on
Alongside the recognition of aging as a trajectory of decline, potential resources in aging. For example, the importance of
other approaches within the social sciences, such as humanism meaning in life to successful aging has been established through
(Maslow, 1954), logotherapy (Frankl, 1959), and positive ample evidence, including the domains of physical health and
psychology (e.g., Seligman and Csikszentmihalyi, 2000), paved longevity (e.g., Boyle et al., 2009; Ryff et al., 2016), as well as
the way toward a scientific interest in the study of optimal in improved mental health outcomes (Musich et al., 2018). Given
and even positive development in aging. These approaches have that life meaning has significance in how aging people make
shown that despite age-related increase in losses and physical sense of their lives, particularly as a factor in successful aging,
and mental challenges, negative effect does not increase with more knowledge can be derived from older adults’ own accounts
age, but rather remains stable (e.g., Diener and Suh, 1998; of their experiences, an approach employed in previous studies
Mroczek and Kolarz, 1998) or even decreases (e.g., Charles (e.g. Lieblich, 2014), providing vivid insight into the construction
et al., 2001; Hudson et al., 2016), and older individuals seem of meaning in the participants’ experiences. Studies exploring
to be able to produce more positive life stories and reviews, positive affect in aging, however, show inconsistent findings,
when engaging with their past (Lieblich, 2014). with some indicating increase in positive emotions with age
In her model, Ryff (1995) suggested six pillars of psychological (Gross et al., 1997; Mroczek and Kolarz, 1998), while others
well-being in adult life, including self-acceptance, purpose in stability (Gross et al., 1997; Kunzmann et al., 2013) or their
life, environmental mastery, positive relationships, autonomy, decline with age (Diener and Suh, 1998; Hudson et al., 2016).
and personal growth. In congruent with this well-researched Another growing area of research in positive psychology relevant
model, aging well has been conceptualized using various to aging is strengths, and specifically character strengths. Defined
theoretical frameworks, such as healthy aging, positive aging, as durable individual traits, manifested in thought, feeling, and
active aging, and successful aging (e.g., Poon and Cohen- behavior in various degrees in different people (Peterson and
Mansfield, 2011; Foster and Walker, 2014; Martin et al., 2015). Seligman, 2004), character strengths can be used (and understood)
However, these conceptualizations, terms, and measures are as personal resources in dealing with concerns in old age.
inconsistent, so much so that the meaning of aging-well is Various studies demonstrate the importance of strengths
often more implied than delineated, present limitations to endorsement and deployment to a host of positive psychological
research on aging-well. Rowe and Kahn (1997) were among outcomes, such as life satisfaction and positive affect (Littman-
the first to characterize the prosperous lifestyle and worthy Ovadia and Lavy, 2012), self-acceptance, a sense of purpose
living in old age, highlighting three main elements of successful in life, environmental mastery, physical and mental health
aging: health, high cognitive and physical functioning, and a (Leontopoulou and Triliva, 2012), coping with daily stress
fruitful and positive social circle. However, Rowe’s and Kahn’s (Brooks, Unpublished), and resilience to stress and trauma (e.g.,
paradigm neglected the consideration of what aging means to Park and Peterson, 2009). In one of the first studies to examine
older adults, a limitation that can be addressed through qualitative strengths and their contribution to well-being in different age
discovery and self-report studies. Indeed, when older adults groups, hope, citizenship, and loving relationships were found
were asked to describe their own experiences, a discrepancy as predictors of life satisfaction in older adults, aged 60 and
appeared between the objective criteria (disability and disease) above (Isaacowitz et al., 2003). Encouraging results regarding
and older individuals’ subjective experiences and definitions (of the potential to acquire and cultivate strengths at old age were
unsuccessful aging or successful aging) (Montross et al., 2006). reported in Owens et al. (2018) study which examined strength
Similar findings emerged in other qualitative studies on successful development from a lifespan perspective, and found that although
aging (Knight and Ricciardelli, 2003; Reichstadt et al., 2007; people’s most dominant strengths are stable throughout life,
Lieblich, 2014). Accordingly, the WHO (World Health strengths can fluctuate throughout the lifespan. However, most
Organization) (2002), in their policy framework, defined active studies conducted within the field of positive psychology have
aging as “the process of optimizing opportunities for health, not paid sufficient direct attention to aging population (Araújo
participation and security in order to enhance quality of life et al., 2017; Greenawalt et al., 2019), while most of them were
as people age” (p. 12). limited to “top-down” quantitative designs. Along these lines,
The abovementioned theoretical frameworks yielded studies, Battersby and Phillips (2016), advocated the importance of
which identified concerns faced by older people, showing how qualitative methods to explore “what is meaningful for older
specific challenges relate to aging well. However, a round and adults,” as this construct “is not well understood” (p. 199).

In sum, aging has been viewed as multidimensional, involving by research assistants, who solicited participants at established
various aspects, such as chronological, biological, social, cultural, community venues for the elderly, such as day centers and
spiritual, and psychological (e.g., Moyle et al., 2014). Given community centers. In addition, participants were recruited via
that aging is a varied and multifaceted experience that depends the snowball technique (i.e., in which one participant recommends
on a multitude of factors, recent calls emphasize that the other potential interviewees; Babbie, 1995). The open and broad
definition of successful aging must also take into account what invitation read, “For a study that focuses on the experience of
the individuals themselves value, rather than rely on objective life in late adulthood, we are seeking participants interested
measures of physical health, to enable a more holistic bio-psycho- in sharing their experiences in an interview of 1.5–2 h.” Those
social view (e.g., Martin et al., 2015). Furthermore, given that responding to this invitation were contacted by phone, provided
culture plays an important role in individuals’ values, assumptions, with an explanation of the study, and assured of confidentiality
and needs (Markus and Kitayama, 1991), the phenomenon of and anonymity.
aging and the experience of its varied potential challenges and The sample size in the present study was determined by
resources may have different meanings, manifestations and the saturation principle, as is customary in qualitative studies:
levels of salience across diverse range of cultures and societies. Data were collected and analyzed until no new themes emerged
(Padgett, 1998). The sample comprised the first 31 people who
Older Adults in Israel responded to this invitation and met the criterion of being
The Israeli society, where the present study was conducted, at least 60 years of age. The participants were all Israeli Jews,
introduces a few unique cultural characteristics which include, 17 males and 14 females. Ages ranged between 60 and 83 years
for example, the prominence of existential threats, a sense of (Mage = 70.87, SDage = 6.24). Participants’ level of education
collective vulnerability, uncertainty, and insecurity, all coupled ranged from high school (35.4%) to higher education (64.4%).
with dialectic worldviews as part of a multicultural immigrant Most participants (77.4%) were married, 9.6% divorced, and
society (e.g., Ezrachi, 2004). In 2016, Israel’s population of adults 12.9% were widows or widowers.
aged 60 and older reached 15.6%, and is expected to keep
rising in the coming years (CBS, 2018). The majority of the Procedure
aging population is composed of immigrants, who had to flee The study received ethical approval by the IRB in the first
the Holocaust in Europe, persecution in North Africa and the author’s university. In-depth, face-to-face, semi-structured
Middle East, or emigrated from the former Soviet Union after interviews were employed, each lasting between 1.5 and 2 h.
its dissolution. In addition, many older Israeli adults experience The interviews were audiotaped and later transcribed verbatim.
a blend of traumatic events, such as exposure to warfare (e.g., Prior to each interview, the participants signed an informed
Solomon and Ginzburg, 1998; Palgi et al., 2015). Findings from consent form, which specified the purpose of the research, its
SHARE-Israel (Survey of Health, Aging and Retirement in procedures, and the voluntary nature of participation, as well
Europe) suggest that more than 75% of Israelis aged 50 or as the right to stop participating in the research at any time
older reported to have experienced at least one traumatic event and issues of confidentiality. The interviews were conducted
(Shmotkin and Litwin, 2009), and that Israeli adults are more by a team of three research assistants. Prior to the interviews,
depressed than European counterparts (Litwin, 2009). Against the interviewers were trained in the preparation and conduct
this background, the current study sought to complement of the semi-structured interviews to be used (Spradley, 1979),
previous knowledge in the field through a “bottom-up,” open- receiving feedback from the authors regarding pilot interviews
ended exploration of Israeli older adults’ own perspectives they conducted. The interview protocol was designed to allow
regarding the experience and potential resources at this life stage. focus without imposing a specific sequence of questions, and
included several main content categories: the participants’ aging
experience, their perceived challenges and resources in their
MATERIALS AND METHODS day-to-day living.
All the interviews began with background information
This study adopted a qualitative-phenomenological prism, due questions, followed by a general, open-ended question inviting
to its focus on exploring the meaning of phenomena in human the participants to speak about how they experience their lives
experience (Giorgi, 1997) from the perspectives of the individuals today at this life stage, allowing them to share spontaneously
themselves (Maykut and Morehouse, 1994). Phenomenology is and describe their personal and subjective experience as freely
essentially a qualitative inquiry into humans’ “lived experience” as possible in their own words. For example, interviewees were
(van Manen, 1990) through the exploration of people’s actions, asked “How do you experience this stage of your life?” and
relations, and situations. Phenomenology thus attempts to identify “How would you describe it?”. The participants were asked
the internal meaning structures or essences of lived experience additional open-ended probing questions to encourage them,
through a study of its particulars (van Manen, 1990). when necessary, to elaborate, clarify meanings, reveal unexplored
issues, or provide further details and examples to attain an
Participants in-depth understanding of their subjective experiences
Participants were recruited using a variety of methods to obtain (van Manen, 1990). For example, the participants were asked
as broad and diverse a perspective of the phenomenon as to further describe specific experiences or situations they
possible, such as online advertisements and direct recruitment mentioned by posing follow-up questions, like, “You spoke

about ‘such and such’; can you tell me more about that?” this, reflections and insights were summarized and then
(Giorgi and Giorgi, 2003); or “What was it like?”; “can you give documented (van Manen, 1990). Furthermore, a triangulation
me an example?”, and “What helps you cope with what you just of the interpretations was facilitated by an ongoing process of
mentioned?”; “Can you describe that particular experience/ critical discussion of the data between the authors, as well as
incident in more detail?” (van Manen, 1990). by an additional independent reader not involved in the previous
The interview ended with an open concluding question: “Is stages. Finally, all interpretations were grounded in direct and
there anything else you feel is important that we did not cover rich excerpts from the interviews (Stiles, 1993).
and you would like to tell me about?” In some cases, this
question facilitated more examples and clarifications of material
previously recounted. All interviews were conducted in the FINDINGS
participants’ homes at a time convenient for them so that
Three prominent themes emerged from the data analysis: (1)
they would be in a familiar environment (Creswell, 2007),
central challenges and concerns described by the participants
providing the conditions to freely and spontaneously develop
as characterizing their experience at this life stage; (2) strategies
their story in their own way, pace, and language. As compensation
employed by the participants to cope with concerns and to
for their participation, each interviewee was awarded two
live a meaningful life in old age; and (3) resources and strengths
coupons for coffee and pastry in a coffee shop of their choice.
that facilitate coping strategies and enable thriving for the
participants. These themes will be presented along with
Data Analysis illustrations derived from the participants’ interviews. All
The interview transcripts were analyzed by using a
quotations provided by participants are vital and important
phenomenological approach in order to obtain a more profound
for conveying the study’s findings and conclusions. Written
understanding of the experience of meaningful aging from the
informed consent to present this information was granted, and
participants’ perspectives. First, all interviews were read
in order to protect their identities, participants’ names and
independently several times by four research assistants (who
gender are omitted and ages appear in ranges.
did not conduct the interviews), as well as by both authors,
to obtain an overall impression of the participants’ experiences,
until reaching a sense of immersion. Central Challenges and Concerns
Next, the research assistants and the first author independently When asked about their experience of current life stage, an
identified “meaning units” (Malterud, 2001) as expressed by essential existential concern of death and increased recognition
the participants, using an “open coding” process (Strauss and of limited time, in various forms, was evident across all
Corbin, 1990). Such line-by-line coding (Charmaz, 2006) enabled interviews. This was often articulated as a sense of life being
identifying the manner in which each participant experiences too short and that there is a time pressure to achieve one’s
the phenomenon under study by systematic queries, such as personal hopes and desires, as can be seen in the
“Which processes and meanings are expressed in each line, following example:
sentence, and paragraph?” and “How, when, and why are they
expressed?” These meaning units were then used to create I really fear death. I find myself thinking a lot about it.
descriptive categories of basic themes, thus constructing an An average person dies at the age of 70–74, and you don’t
initial framework for further analysis. The various categories really have a chance to do anything… people around me
and basic themes were then reexamined and compared for tell me not to think about it, but I can’t help it. I want to
possible connections across individual meaning expressions as achieve more things in life, to do more things, to see my
well as between participants. The final step, comprising a holistic granddaughter growing up. She is three years old; in nine
examination of themes and their interrelations, was conducted more years she will have a bat-mitzvah. Will I live to see
to achieve a broad understanding of the participants’ experiences. it? [older adult, male, age 60–64].
Although the data analysis is portrayed here as a linear
procedure, the actual process was more cyclical, with each The fear of death was portrayed directly as well as interwoven
stage building upon its predecessor; each case was assessed among other concerns raised by the participants, as reflected
discretely, as well as across all participants. As such, it involved in the following two subthemes.
a dynamic and repeated, back and forth, between the parts
(i.e., texts and quotations) and the whole (i.e., the entire Fear of Losing Control
transcript), as well as between units of meaning and general The acute acknowledgment of limited time ahead was experienced
themes (e.g., van Manen, 1990). This procedure enabled a by the participants, not only as limiting the fulfillment of
close reading of the phenomenology of the participants’ future possibilities, but also implying a loss of control. Loss
experience, thus certifying confirmability. Furthermore, a of control was voiced as related to relinquishing responsibilities
fundamental methodological principle within the that had been central to their sense of personal identity, such
phenomenological framework concerns “bracketing” (Beech, as family roles. For example, a common concern related to
1999) in which the researchers set aside their experiences and the future of loved ones and ways to ensure they will continue
attitudes, as far as possible, to adopt a fresh perspective on to be taken care of and continue their lives without them.
the phenomenon being explored (Moustakas, 1994). To address For example:

The family becomes a central concern at this age. I mean, terribly and have the ability to stop it, I will… It goes hand
you have a limited time here, who knows when it [death] in hand with the fear of losing control. I want to control
will occur, and you kind of fear, kind of worry… It’s like, my life. It makes me happy to know that I can choose and
I am married to my wife for the last 47 years, but I am also do it. If I won’t be able to choose anymore, I don’t want to
married to a constant anxiety that intensifies the older continue. If I look forward to the future, I think that it’s
I get, regarding the welfare of my grandchildren, children… my way of dealing with my own death. Maybe someday
to make sure that everything will be alright [older adult, there will be an option for elderly people to choose their
male, age 70–74]. death day. It might seem today as not Jewish and
unrealistic, but I don’t understand why an old dog can
Loss of control was also voiced as reflecting decreasing and an old person cannot… I mean, an old dog that suffers,
personal independence—especially with regard to the participants’ can just get an injection, so why can’t we have that option
physical condition—in terms of fear of deterioration and of too? [older adult, female, age 70–74].
physical pain and suffering, which is experienced as limiting
the participants’ capacity to make use of the short time horizon
ahead. For many participants having full, meaningful, and Fear of Squandering Spare Time and Missing Out
active life means to be independent, to choose freely how to Another manifestation of existential death anxiety evident in
live their remaining time. For example, in the following excerpt, the interviews was a “fear of missing out” (FOMO). Some
this older adult recounted that lacking control of her physical participants talked about their need to do as much as possible,
condition goes hand in hand with the extent of her ability to to learn as much as they can, to experience as much as possible,
fill her remaining time with valuable activities: and to “devour the world,” as one participant noted, before
their time runs out. For example:
Ever since I fell, I’m not free, I don’t go out, I don’t function.
I used to cook and bake and do many things. Today, I can’t; I don’t have enough hours in a day… seriously, I don’t
my daughter does things instead… It’s like I sit and wait have enough time… I don’t want to miss out on everything
for my death, because when your physical condition that is out there. I can’t manage to do everything I want
deteriorates, it affects how independent you are and what to with all of my activities. I’m short of time… I don’t have
you do with your time. You are not in control [older adult, any spare time, and it’s good. I don’t want to be bored;
female, age 70–74]. there is so much to do [older adult, male, age 75–79].
Losing control over one’s activity and time was noted Concerns of missing out and squandering the limited resource
repeatedly, not only with regard to physical limitation, but of time voiced by the participants highlighted the high value
also a mental one, as can be seen in the following example: placed on keeping busy and active, and avoiding the vacuum
of “dead hours” that may trigger existential reflections about
I think that dealing with old age is also seeing its beautiful life and remaining time. According to the participants’ accounts,
sides, living the time you have left... For me, I’m more remaining active and busy, confer a sense of being in control,
bothered by the prospect of a deteriorating mental state, staying relevant, significant, and useful. The following participant,
becoming someone who does not understand what goes on for example, shared her experience that keeping every moment
around her or disconnected to reality. This is much more full, keeping busy all the time, and filling her days with activities
troubling for me than a physical limitation, like being in a keeps her from getting bored and having empty spare time:
wheelchair or in need for special care at home.... As long as
I’m in control of my life and as long as I feel that I am aware I look for things to keep me busy, whether it’s reading
of what is going on, it’s enough for me to deal with whatever books, watching movies, attending classes on many topics,
challenges this age brings with it, knowing that I may not some sports… I feel that I need to; I don’t want to be drawn
have much time. [older adult, female, age 70–74]. into doing nothing, going through my days with no
purpose... [older adult, female, age 65–69].
The participants described their attempts to maintain control
over their lives as much as possible, such as eating well and Some participants even articulated a complementary sense
stay physically and mentally active. Some even asserted that of social expectation to remain active rising with retirement,
retaining control over one’s life means being in control over encouraged by organizations to volunteer, to attend lectures
one’s death as well: and group activities:
In my fantasy, if the situation gets really bad, I hope I’ll When I retired, I felt like I’m going to “grab” the world, to
have enough cognitive and physical capacity to do finally do all of the things you couldn’t do before, due to
something… Very few people go to Switzerland or life’s commitments to family and work. And society
somewhere [else] to end their lives, to take their lives in encourages that, with a wide range of volunteering options
their own hands… For me, there is no question about it. and activities offered to retired people… the atmosphere
I don’t want to die, but if I’ll get to a point of suffering was like, ‘so what are you doing on your pension? How

do you spend your time? What are you studying?’ Like that where essential family and work roles have been
you owe something to the world, like it was expected from downgraded, they will be left “outside of the game,” as
you… So, I started doing it, going to lectures and activities expressed by one participant. In other words, they fear
and dancing and singing, filling my days with activities becoming useless and unable to contribute to society, as this
[older adult, female, age 75–79]. excerpt illustrates:
Making every moment count gives the participants a sense When a person retires, he or she may feel that they are
of precious time used, as this excerpt suggests: meaningless to the world. The most important thing for a
person is to feel meaningful, that their existence is not
It’s getting up in the morning with a plan, knowing that meaningless. For many people retiring in old age, their
there is something for you to do, that you have a plan. It main problem, I think, is that they feel insignificant, they
is very, very important to me that my day is completely feel useless and unneeded… when you have meaning,
full. It is important for me to be active, to meet friends, to when life has content, then there is something to live for
go to lectures… I hate wasting time; I don’t like to feel that [older adult, male, age 65–69].
time is fading away. I am frightened of getting bored,
because you see, the kids are grown up, the grandkids are Some participants referred to this “void” directly as potential
grown up, and they don’t need me to babysit every day, danger characterizing old age; for example:
so to fill life with meaningful content… you need planning
and doing. I’m afraid to reach the point when it will end. Many people in their older years are not in the mood to
But of course, it will have to end at some point... [older do anything. I’m not in the mood sometimes, too…
adult, female, age 75–79]. because we are tired, tired of life; and people say that
we have done enough in life, and this is the time to rest.
Such a realization ignited a sense of urgency in some But what does it mean “to rest?” Do nothing? Does it
participants, reflected in crystallizing the things that are essential mean that “our time” is over, and now we should live an
and significant to achieve in a limited time, which is also free empty life? Unfortunately, this may cause depression,
from external obligations; as the following excerpt highlights: and many people my age are depressed [older adult,
female, age 70–74].
We always postpone things because we feel that we don’t
have enough time to get to them... We think that we will Other participants referred to loneliness as a given as part
reach a certain point in life when we will start doing the of their old age:
things we always wanted to do, but when you finally ‘have
time,’ and I say that in quotation marks, you realize that The most difficult thing to endure at my age is, for
it’s still not enough; you don’t have the time to do everything example, loneliness… I feel the loneliness in the afternoons
you thought of doing, and that’s frustrating. You keep and in the evenings, because in the mornings, I am very
promising yourself that ’now I can really start living active… But I find some comfort in knowing that there
because I finally don’t have all of these obligations to get are other people who share these feelings [older adult,
up in the morning and run to work and send off the kids’... female, age 75–79].
and then you realize how much you’ve postponed.
Apparently, life is too short, and we don’t really know how This is one of the problems of people my age; they don’t
much time we have left [older adult, female, age 70–74]. leave their homes, and they are lonely and miserable.
When someone is lonely, he is miserable. For religious
The participants also acknowledged the dual consideration people, it may be less of a problem because they meet
of not wasting time by filling it with meaningful daily activities regularly at their house of worship, whether it be a
and a life imbued with a sense of purpose, for example: synagogue or a church… an observant Jew goes to the
I see that there are times when I’m not focused on a specific synagogue… A place where people come together. There
target, and then I waste my time not doing things that are is togetherness, and when there is togetherness, life is better
meaningful for me. And there are things that are important [older adult, male, age 80–84].
to me, things that I really want to do, but due to a lack of
thinking ahead or planning, I postpone them or don’t do
them properly… It is important for me not to waste time, Strategies for Coping With
not only because I think that there is a limited time to Challenges in Old Age
each person, but because everyone has missions to fulfill Although the interviewees were not asked directly about coping
in life, and it’s a pity to postpone them. It’s not just that strategies, they described various strategies they employ in
we are born and then die [older adult, male, age 60–64]. order to deal with the concerns raised and to live a more
meaningful life at this life stage. These include two overarching
Other challenges involved with old age articulated by the recurrent categories: (1) establishing active routine; and (2)
participants included experiencing loneliness and concern contribution to others and the world.

Active Routine return… This is how it is with an elderly woman in my

Many participants discussed the importance of establishing an neighborhood, for example. I go there to keep her company
active schedule or routine, particularly given the blocks of so she won’t be alone and bored, and she thanks me so
discretionary time available after retirement and no longer much, I tell her that I enjoy coming to her, that she doesn’t
having child rearing in their purview. According to their need to thank me so much... At times when I can’t visit,
accounts, an organized schedule of activities provides a sense I feel really bad, and when I do [visit], it is fulfilling for
of order and purpose—having something to wake up for in me... [older adult, female, age 75–79].
the morning:
The following participant, too, referred to helping others
You need a daily routine with at least one activity a day. through volunteering as a strategy she employs which enables
Every day, I have something else to do; I try to divide my her both to cope with and to find meaning in face of challenges
days so that every day, I’ll have something different to do, at this life stage:
that there won’t be a situation where I have nothing to do
[older adult, female, age 75–79]. I volunteer a lot; I volunteer in hospitals, I am an
ambulance driver… My days are more satisfying and fuller
Acknowledging that maintaining an active lifestyle encourages today than when I was working… It gives a lot, helps
development and growth, even in the face of life’s challenges you deal with life’s complexities. And it starts with being
and adversities, is also evident in this excerpt: human, being kind to others. As simple as that. It’s like
plants that you give them water. What did you do?
Even though my son passed away, I kept my cheerful You just give them water, it’s not a big effort. But what it
mood. I don’t ask what life brings to me. I try to keep does to the plant... wow, it makes it bloom, it makes it
going, to keep doing things. And that is also true for happy. I do good for other people, and it makes me feel
dealing with the challenges that age brings with it. If good, too; it’s very satisfying for me. When you approach
you continue to learn, improve, grow, you are motivated a sick person on the ward—and I volunteer in the
to live. If I’d reach a point where I won’t have an interest oncological ward—it’s very difficult; he [the patient] has
in life, that will be the day I’ll die. Then I will have no no one, and you bring him a glass of water, and he thanks
point in living, nothing to aspire to [older adult, male, you so much as if you did something huge, and it’s
age 60–64]. gratifying that you succeeded in causing him to smile…
this person who was in very serious condition. At this age,
The participants asserted that an active lifestyle is a buffer, you realize it’s not just about you, personally. I don’t think
not only for boredom and existential reflections on limited only about myself. It makes your life meaningful; this is
time horizon, but also as an antidote for withdrawal from a reason to get up in the morning, isn’t it? [older adult,
life, and even for depression, for example: female, age 60–64].
When I retired, I knew that if I’d sit at home, I’d decline

quickly. I would lose interest. So, I started drawing; I have Resources and Personal Strengths
loved drawing all my life, but I stopped for a long time as Facilitators for Coping and
because there was always something to get done. Now, Meaningful Aging
I returned to it. I said to myself, “this is my time.” I also Several resources and personal strengths emerged from the
volunteer with elderly people and with young single interviews, as supporting the strategies the participants used
parents… I got on with my life, and I didn’t fall into to cope with the challenges and concerns they voiced and to
depression like I feared I would. I had reasons not to. living more fully. These included three central categories: (1)
[older adult, female, age 75–79]. connection and belonging; (2) openness and savoring experiences;
and (3) positive attitude and moderation.
Contribution to Others Connection and Belonging

Another common strategy expressed by the participants was The participants articulated the important resource of being a
pursuing activities in which they can help, care, and contribute part of something bigger than themselves. This manifests itself
to others, whether in close relationships and\or through through maintaining close relationships with family and friends,
volunteering in various venues. Participants spoke about their attending study groups, congregation, and community involvement,
desire and commitment to help others, as can be seen in the to a larger scale of belonging to a nation or humanity. For example:
following example:
Meetings in the company of friends, being a part of a big
At my age, I realize that my time here is limited, so I try group of like-minded people, all of that makes me feel
to do good. The most meaningful thing is volunteering… meaningful and relevant; they notice if I’m absent. We are
It makes you feel that you can contribute. You give to a group of friends from work, friends for the past 50 years…
someone and you immediately receive something in I think that these meetings contribute to my mental health,

they help me open up and share my experiences and resources for coping with existential concerns, such as loneliness.
challenges, even concerns. I feel I’m not withdrawing or For example:
secluded, I belong [older adult, male, age 75–79].
I like connecting with people… when I sit on the bus, I try
Being part of a community appears to provide participants to sit in the back and seek out someone to talk to… Being
with a sense of having a secure anchor in the midst of the in touch with friends, with people, makes you feel less
unique challenges they face at this life stage: alone, I call them and ask how they are doing… It is
important for me to keep in touch with people I know. It’s
Community is a real anchor for me… I find myself making gratifying for me, fills my days with content [older adult,
considerable efforts to maintain it. As people pass away, male, age 80–84].
the community becomes smaller, and I hope it won’t
dissolve… because it’s a real anchor for me, something Whether secular or religious, having a sense of connection
I can rely on…We meet, and people ask me how I am and and belonging also involved a broader spiritual experience of
take an interest in me. I can feel that they care. You know, being a part of something bigger than themselves, that they
there’s a saying: “It is better to have a close neighbor than have a role in the great scheme of things, and that their lives
a distant brother”... Community is that someone who can have purpose. For example:
support me daily… [older adult, female, age 70–74].
Knowing that you are part of something greater than
The participants referred to being a part of religious yourself, that you have an affinity with God’s creation and
community as factor which enables to negate age-related eternality, is very comforting. You are not just an ant in
concerns, for example: infinity, dust in the wind… there is some sort of big plan
that we all take part in, you have a significant part of it.
We are part of a community, the synagogue, the friends That’s very comforting [older adult, male, age 65–69].
around, it’s very important. It is very important for our
daily lives, especially now, at this age. I’m a big believer in
community life; this is why I devote time to attending the Openness and Savoring Experiences
synagogue, to meeting friends, engaging in activities for and Encounters
the benefit of my neighborhood and community. It takes The participants also described the importance of being open
up time, but it fills you with meaning; it’s important for to the world to experience and to learn new things as a source
me… I’m filling my time in a meaningful way… It’s from which they can derive strength, expand their horizons,
knowing that I’m making meaningful use of my time and and develop further:
that I continue to contribute to society. I mean, I’m a part
of something, it gives you a sense of being whole. I’m part I continue learning and developing. It keeps me fresh and
of a family, part of society… I think this is the secret of young… this is the thing that keeps me going… There is
well-being in old age; it can help you cope with all of the the Sisyphean work at home, which is cleaning and
storms and turbulence of old age. I see people in different cooking… this seem totally Sisyphean to me. So, my priority
places, people that have nothing, attached to nothing… is learning; this is something that makes living worthwhile,
What kind of life is that? You wake up in the morning, especially at my age [older adult, female, age 70–74].
read some newspaper, watch some television, eat, and go
to sleep. What kind of meaning does such a life have? The personal strengths of love of learning and curiosity
[older adult, male, age 70–74]. described by the participants as a resource enabling them to
cope and experience life more fully was also prominent in
Some participants even referred to a broader community, their desire to know as much as possible about a topic that
such as a nation: they are interested in, to visit new places, to experience more,
for example:
To be part of a bigger group enables you to deal better
with things. This is what gives meaning to our lives… Curiosity gives me patience… there are things that I don’t
We are not loners that live merely to survive; we live understand yet and I’m open to learn more about. It’s a
because we are part of society. This is what holds us, this quality which is also important to life in general, I think,
is what I think gives life purpose and meaning… In the looking at problems from different angles instead of
broadest sense, the State of Israel and the Jewish people, thinking you already know the solution and denouncing
it’s a community, a family. Otherwise, what are we doing the new perspective [older adult, male, age 60–64].
here? I could live a great life in the USA… But we are here
because there is a meaning to the fact that we live here in Being open to the world as a resource also involved the
this society, in Israel… [older adult, male, age 75–79]. importance of savoring life’s gifts such as nature:
Other than belonging to a community, close relationships When you experience your surroundings, you gain peace
and making new connections were also discussed as important of mind… I have a neighbor whose husband passed away

a month ago, and I told her to “take your life into your own the face of concerns and challenges, they have learned to accept
hands,” don’t let yourself sink... Sinking is easy… go out to things, to be satisfied with what they have, and to focus on
the garden and watch the plants, feel them, water them; it what matters and is meaningful. As this excerpt exemplifies:
gives you a lot to go out to the garden… plants are grateful,
they know how to thank you, they flourish and bear fruit… Our whole life is like a movie. At this age, we start
plants are healing, the green, the colors, the bloom. You see remembering things we didn’t have time to think about,
it flourish. If you don’t water it, it looks impoverished and to reflect… There are things we’ve done that make us
shriveled, and just a little water and a day later, it suddenly happy, others that make us angry at ourselves, satisfied
blooms. It’s a wonderful thing, there is so much to learn or disappointed, you analyze your life from different angles
from plants... [older adult, female, age 75–79]. looking back. However, one of the gifts of old age is the
serenity that comes with it. This is why they say elderly
Such appreciating for beauty, noticing beautiful things that people have life wisdom… life has taught them [older
others may overlook, was experienced as an attitude, allowing adult, female, age 70–74].
the participants to frame routine errands not as a waste of
time, but as an opportunity to enjoy the beauty the world Participants attested to the fact that their views and attitudes
has to offer, as “the fuel for the rest of the time” (older adult, have softened in order to deal with the limited time ahead
age 70–74). For example: and with other concerns they face. They feel less strongly
about things that triggered emotional responses in the past;
When I used to wait for a bus, my children used to tell now they are more willing to move forward and leave the
me sometimes to take the car, but I insisted [on taking the struggles behind:
bus]. I would answer ‘wait a minute, see all the beauty
you can see when you have time to look out the window, I don’t hold grudges anymore. When I was young, if
the many beautiful flowers I see when I walk, so many you have a very good friend, and she suddenly disappointed
things one can enjoy. Don’t see it only as the difficulty of you because she did this or that, you really feel like being
boarding the bus, there are so many beautiful things out angry with her… but the more I age, I realize that life is
there, too [older adult, female, age 70–74]. beyond all of these minor issues… You need to be wise,
and I feel that I’m wiser, I don’t hold grudges anymore,
it’s a waste of time. I feel like a winner, that I can move
Optimistic Attitude and Moderation on and not get stuck on things that don’t really matter…
Another common resource highlighted by the interviewees was [older adult, female, age 65–69].
a positive and moderated perspective on life. This involved taking
responsibility over one’s attitude and perspective toward life and I used to fight for justice. Today, much less. It’s important
actively deciding how to deal with various life situations and for me to be with my family, to celebrate the good things
endure unavoidable suffering, an intrinsic part of life, particularly in life, not fight over who’s right… I try not to take [things]
in old age. For example, This participant pointed out the importance to heart… I try to change whatever I can, and the things
of one’s responsibility to appreciate life rather than complaining: I can’t, I choose not to take to heart like I used to... [older
adult, female, age 60–64].
I’m giving this advice to anyone who is aging: ‘take your
life in your own hands and enjoy it. Don’t complain.’
Many of the participants have come to accept situations
We may have challenges, but when we complain, we only
that they cannot change, such as medical conditions, limitations
see the problems; focusing on what makes life wonderful
that come with age, and losses they have experienced. They
makes you more resilient… As long as I’m alive and wake
choose to concentrate on what seems to be most important
up in the morning, it’s a lot [older adult, female, age 60–64].
for them:
The participants described positive perspective as enabling
coping with life’s adversities and the challenges that age brings There is an Indian saying I like that says that whatever
with it: you can change -change, and what you cannot, live with
it. Don’t be stubborn and hit your head against the wall.
We’ve had a great deal of tragedy in our family… I don’t I’m not stubborn. I know my limitations, both physically
cry about my misfortune, and many times. I say that and financially, and also, of course, age limitations, and
I cannot change it, so I try to make good use of what today I don’t really want to change things as I used to
I have… It’s a philosophy of life. I still love life. I am happy when I was young. I want to be a part of reality and life
with life, and I try to see the good in it. What will I get from as much as possible and to flow as much as possible. It is
seeing what is bad? I think that this is a healthy way to live, what it is [older adult, male, age 65–69].
not to let life be wasted [older adult, female, age 70–74].
Maybe it’s universal, that people moderate with age. I feel
Participants articulated a more pragmatic, balanced, and that I have experienced general moderation in all of my
moderated view of life that has become stronger with age. In view of things, of life. It’s more like wisdom, cautious

decision making, less impulsivity. I don’t feel an obligation (Araújo et al., 2017), revealing that while 29 quantitative studies
to accomplish things, to ‘show off.’ It’s more about living have been conducted on this topic in the last decade, only
peacefully [older adult, male, age 60–64]. four of them were of a qualitative nature. The authors called
for a greater use of qualitative studies with older adult samples,
These also highlight the capability to pause to be grateful as interviews and open questions regarding well-being may lead
for the good things in life, rather than taking them for granted. to more productive data collection (Araújo et al., 2017). Thus,
For example: an open-ended approach to exploring older individuals’
experiences may lead to a more comprehensive and in-depth
We live from day to day. We don’t know what tomorrow understanding of the theoretical and practical implications for
will bring. It helps to be grateful, to see what we have and this age group, as it takes into account the challenges and
thank God… What we have is sufficient… There are so concerns they are faced with, as well as the resources and
many good things in our lives, but we need to stop and coping strategies that they develop.
recognize them [older adult, male, age 80–84]. The present study illuminates several integrative contributions,
expanding existing knowledge. The findings suggest that the
Wisdom and moderation were supported by having a way essence of the experience of Israeli older adults reflect an amalgam
of looking at the world that makes sense, feeling that their of both existential concerns and personal resources, particularly
life experience has made them wiser. They have accumulated character strengths, which facilitate coping with challenges and
more points of view and are better able to look at the bigger concerns as well as contribute to living more fully at this life stage.
picture. For example: The participants in the present study articulated a major
concern of death, both directly and indirectly by the concern
Sometimes, I see from the side people who are dealing with of limited time, fear of losing control and the concern of
nonsense, arguing and fighting over nothing… “Look squandering time and missing out. This major concern corresponds
around you, see the world. You are fighting over nothing. to Yalom’s (1980) consideration of death as the most prominent
No one promised us a rose garden.” There are things in life of the four existential concerns. Among older adults in particular,
which are not so pleasant, but you learn to see it in the awareness of personal death may trigger psychological pain
perspective and not blow up the world over it [older adult, and distress. According to terror management theory (TMT),
female, age 70–74]. developed by Ernest Becker (1973), the motivation to deny
death is viewed as a unifying concept for human behavior.
In sum, the findings suggested three overarching themes, Being human involves the unique paradox of the self-preservation
which frame the essence of the participants’ lived experience instinct concurrent with self-consciousness: humans are aware
in a holistic way. The first theme offers an insider’s perspective of their own vulnerability and mortality, and at the same time,
of the major concerns and challenges that aging raises, according are motivated to avoid the terror of death. This can
to the interviewees’ own experience. The second theme offers be accomplished through granting the world meaning and value
practical strategies employed by the participants to cope with that go beyond death and vulnerability by investing in a cultural
such concerns, and the third theme illuminates potential resources worldview and securing self-esteem (see Martens et al., 2004).
which facilitate coping strategies with the above concerns. The concern of death was accompanied by the participants’
experience of being left “outside the game” and feeling useless,
where previously critical roles in the family and work domains
DISCUSSION have been considerably modified. This notion is in line with
the importance of remaining useful, as described in narratives
The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore older adults’ in other studies (e.g. Lieblich, 2014). This echoes Freud’s famous
own perspectives of their aging experience, their perceived response to the question regarding the core components of
challenges and resources that enable them to cope with such psychological health and meaningful life: “Love and work are
challenges in their day-to-day living. Interest in aging well has the cornerstones of our humanness” (see Elms, 2001). These
increased in recent years, as conceptualized through various two dimensions are particularly evident in old age, with theories
theoretical frameworks, such as healthy aging, positive aging, in social gerontology showing the centrality and linkage between
active aging, and successful aging (e.g., Poon and Cohen-Mansfield, these two dimensions (Zaidi and Howse, 2017).
2011; Foster and Walker, 2014; Martin et al., 2015). However, Disengagement theory, one of the first theories of aging,
despite mounting knowledge about the factors contributing to postulates a view of old age as a time of life when people
wellness in old adulthood (e.g., Vaillant, 2002; Ryff et al., 2016), step back from various commitments and social roles. In
evidence for a greater presence of meaning among older adults response to disengagement theory and in line with the frameworks
(Steger et al., 2009), which may serve as a protective factor developed to incorporate other more positive experiences of
(e.g., Reker, 1997) in later life, only few studies have focused life in older age, such as successful aging, positive aging, and
on these issues from older adults’ own perspective. This lacuna productive aging, in line with previous research (Lieblich, 2014),
was corroborated in a recent review of hedonic and eudaimonic the findings of the present study highlight the desire of older
well-being in old age through the lens of positive psychology adults to remain active participants in society through creating

opportunities for social connectedness, contribution, and the task of the adulthood stage is the resolution of the generativity
belongingness. This is in line with the strength and vulnerability versus stagnation crisis, reflecting a “need to be needed” (Erikson,
integration theory (e.g., Charles, 2010), suggesting that a limited 1968, p. 138), contributing to future generations by productive
time horizon alongside accumulated life experience may enable and creative endeavors. Overall, Frankl’s (1959) three pathways
older adults to develop strategies to adjust their emotions and reflect self-transcendence: toward others, through volunteering
organize their surroundings to avoid or minimize negative or relationships; toward the world, through experience or
experiences. One of the contributions of the present findings creation; and beyond given conditions and circumstances. In
is the importance of active lifestyle, as a facilitator of a sense a similar vein, the participants in the present study articulated
of coherence, order and consistency, in the experience of older their capability to transcend beyond individual self and daily
adults. The participants’ volitional attempts to structure their hassles, to the great scheme of things that “truly matter,”
environment by establishing an active routine, despite of the balancing accepting the past, living more fully in the present,
loss of previous roles, appear to provide them with a sense and striving to make a contribution and leave a legacy for
of control and meaning. In this sense, “bottom-up” real-life the future, through their attitudes and actions.
findings support previous empirical laboratory studies, suggesting Utilizing a “bottom-up” perspective, we also found that the
that engaging in routinized behaviors may enable a connection participants articulated personal strengths as resources and
to a larger context and cultivates a sense of meaning (e.g., channels to both cope and move toward a more full and
Heintzelman and King, 2019). Routines allow for structure meaningful life, in their experience. Interestingly, most (but not
(Heintzelman et al., 2013) as well as coherence and all) of the strengths that emerge from the interviews correspond
comprehensibility—the extent to which life makes sense and to several character strengths identified by the VIA classification
characterized by consistent connections (e.g., Baumeister, 1991; (Peterson and Seligman, 2004). More specifically, the participants’
Baumeister and Vohs, 2002). Routines have also been mentioned active strategies of building daily routines and contributing to
as contributors to positive aging (Lieblich, 2014). others, demonstrated through experiencing and creating, can
Another important contribution integrates classic theoretical be seen as facilitated by character strengths which belong to
models of meaning in life with the actual experience of older the humanity cluster (i.e., kindness and love) and to the wisdom
adults. The strategies and resources voiced by the participants and knowledge cluster (i.e., curiosity, love of learning, appreciation
correspond with Frankl’s (1959) pathways to discovering meaning of beauty). The attitudinal strategies of positive and moderated
in life: the creative, experiential, and attitudinal. The creative attitude can be seen as facilitated mostly by strengths comprising
pathway emphasizes what one gives to the world, in terms of the transcendence cluster of character strengths (i.e., hope,
creation (e.g., volunteering, deeds, dedication to personal goals). gratitude, spirituality). Positive spirituality in aging was defined
This pathway incorporates using individual assets to contribute by Crowther et al. (2002) as an internalized relationship with
to the society more broadly. The experiential pathway emphasizes the sacred and transcendent that is not bound by race, ethnicity,
what one takes from the world, in terms of experiences and or class, and as an important contributor to the wellness of
encounters (e.g., nature, art, humor, roles, love, relationships). the self and others. Indeed, studies have shown that spirituality
The attitudinal pathway emphasizes the stand or attitude one tends to increase in later adulthood (e.g., Moberg, 2005; Koenig,
takes regarding situations that cannot be changed or unavoidable 2006), and it has been considered recently as an important
suffering. Through the implementation of a positive attitude ingredient of well-being in positive psychological studies of old
in the face of aversive or traumatic events, Frankl believed age (e.g., Sadler and Biggs, 2006; Cowlishaw et al., 2013).
that the individual can find increased meaning (Frankl, 1959; The participants also voiced an attitudinal approach to a life
Batthyany and Russo-Netzer, 2014). Closely related is the of moderation and balance that emerged as standing on its
socioemotional selectivity theory (Carstensen et al., 1999), which own, rather than as reflective of specific character strengths
suggests that, as our perspective of time changes with age, that appear in the VIA cluster of temperance (prudence,
our motivations shift accordingly. Indeed, the participants in forgiveness, humility, and self-regulation). Such general moderation
the present study voiced an acknowledgement of concerns and was voiced as an experience of maturation and life wisdom,
challenges that characterize this life stage but at the same time which enabled them to look at the bigger picture through a
to leverage their concerns to take responsibility over their lives more pragmatic and balanced view of life. Facing concerns and
and create new structures to contribute to society through challenges, they learned to accept things, to be satisfied with
volunteering, dedication to a community, and close relationships. what they have, and to focus on what matters and is meaningful.
These findings are consistent with previous research indicating The acceptance aspect of wisdom is in line with previous findings
that successful aging requires a balance between self-acceptance/ (Reichstadt et al., 2010). Lieblich (2014) discusses moderation
self-contentment and engagement with life and self-growth, and wisdom as a balance between silence and preaching, distance
within it representing themes of realistic self-appraisal, a review and closeness and control and withdrawal. This is also in line
of one’s life, focusing on the present, engaging in novel pursuits, with developmental theories, such as those of Jung (1959) and
giving to others, engaging in social interactions, maintaining Erikson (1968), which emphasize maturation, increased
routine, engaging in exercise, and having a positive attitude introspection, and resolution. Future studies may consider
(Reichstadt et al., 2010; Lieblich, 2014). This essence is also moderation as a character strength that may reflect a distinguishing
central to Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development, where developmental characteristic of old age and stand on its own.

Overall, the present study extends previous findings by people. However, there may be individual differences within
offering a potential ‘bridge’ between existential concerns and this group (e.g.,60-year-olds and 80-year-olds), as there are
positive psychological resources and character strengths, through many countries where 60-year-old adults are still active and
the perspective and voices of elderly individuals. Our findings continue to work in the formal labor market and contribute
also suggest practical implications for policymakers and caregivers through informal work and voluntary activities. Hence, an
to consider interventions with the elderly that facilitate the important direction to future studies may be exploring
balance between the acknowledgment and acceptance of individual differences in the experiences between younger
existential concerns, while creating a safe space for self- older adults and older adults, which may also help to shed
transcendence, through creative, experiential, and attitudinal further light on this phenomenon.
pathways of active and relational engagement by using their Regarding the VIA model of character strengths, this study
personal character strengths. This is also in line with calls to raises questions that should be explored in future quantitative
integrate spiritual issues into the psychological care of older and qualitative studies, such as the role of character strengths
adults (e.g., Ortiz and Langer, 2002). The findings and gained in coping with existential concerns and enhancing meaning
insights from the present study reflect the importance of along the lifespan, and the place of moderation as a potential
qualitative research methods in capturing the richness and new character strength relevant for meaningful and authentic aging.
complexity of a phenomena, in-line with previous suggestions Qualitative research methods in general and phenomenological
regarding this approach’s focus on understanding how individuals research in particular do not strive for representation,
interpret or ascribe meaning to a given experience (e.g. Hodge, generalization, or the extraction of an objective truth from
2001). Listening rather than measuring has the potential of the findings (Patton, 2002). Instead, they strive to gain an
revealing “fresh categories of meaning that quantitative studies understanding of the processes by which human beings construct
may not have discovered” (Blieszner and Ramsey, 2002, p. 36). meaning from their experience (van Manen, 1990; McPhail,
In the context of older age, quantitative assessments follow 1995) and allow for the prospect of extrapolating the findings
stringent inclusion criteria leading to omission of participants to other settings or contexts by providing rich data suggesting
and data, and largely risking neglecting the subjective component ideas that merit further exploration (Elo et al., 2014). Thus,
of successful aging (Von Faber et al., 2001). altogether, the qualitative-phenomenological nature of the present
study has facilitated an exploration of the participants’ experience
“bottom-up” in more depth and illuminated phenomena that
Research Limitations and Directions for correspond to previous theory and studies, and also suggest
Future Research directions for future quantitative studies.
Given that the present study was conducted within the specific
sociocultural context, an exploration of other cultures would
constitute an important direction for future research. Such DATA AVAILABILITY STATEMENT
exploration may suggest cross-cultural as well as individual
differences in the manner in which people experience, articulate, The datasets generated for this study are available on request
and discern their existential concerns, coping strategies, and to the corresponding author.
experiences of aging. Furthermore, all participants were from
a Western, moderately individualized culture. More specifically,
the Israeli context where the study took place may have ETHICS STATEMENT
additional unique characteristics that underscore the potential
salience, significance, and importance of searching for meaning The studies involving human participants were reviewed and
in life. An exploration of the issues explored in the present approved by Department of Counseling and Human Development,
study among different populations may illuminate different University of Haifa. The patients/participants provided their
concerns that are common to the aging population, such as written informed consent to participate in this study.
existential freedom, whereas other concerns may not be as
prevalent, such as the concern of death or existential vacuum.
Moreover, the recruitment strategies employed in the AUTHOR CONTRIBUTIONS
current study were designed to recruit active older adults,
in order to explore their own perspectives regarding the PR-N and HL-O have made substantial contributions to the
day-to-day living experience and perceived resources at this conception of the study, the acquisition, analysis, and
life stage. Thus, despite their contribution, the current interpretation of the research data, and in preparing the
findings should be interpreted with caution and cannot manuscript for publication.
be generalized to other contexts or populations. An important
challenge for future research might be to examine how the
themes identified in the present study might apply in other FUNDING
older adult subgroups that are less active. Also, this study
adopted the WHO (World Health Organization) (2002) and This work was funded by Ariel University Research Authority
the United Nations standard of age 60 to describe “older” RA1700000379 Aging Research.

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published: 31 October 2019

“Something to Live for”: Experiences,

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Active Routine return… This is how it is with an elderly woman in my

When I retired, I knew that if I’d sit at home, I’d decline

Contribution to Others Connection and Belonging

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