A Phenomenological Perspective on Older Widows’Satisfactions With Their Lives

Abstract

The study of life satisfaction (LS) has been a preeminent focus in gerontological research, but the validity of the construct has been questioned. The main aim of this descriptive phenomenological study was to describe the structures of experience (phenomena) that older widows associated with perceptions of gratification, pleasure, or contentment. A secondary analysis was done of 44 interviews conducted with 16 older widows. The phenomenon of interest was savoring satisfactions. Six component phenomena, including “doing what I can for them” and “bringing variety to life,” were common across the sample. The women’s specific intentions reflected personal nuances of the phenomenon. The personal-social context of the experience was described, and sources of satisfaction were highlighted as opportunities afforded by the environment. Findings were compared to domains typically measured in LS instruments and predominant research traditions. Ideas were cited for preventive interventions and further research about satisfying experiences and sources of satisfaction.