A qualitative research on role of social interaction and social network to prevent loneliness among elderly

The present study was to explore the loneliness of the older adults and the role of social interaction and social networking (online) to reduce loneliness among elderly. As the study dealt with human emotions and feelings, qualitative approach was used. Data was collected through semi structured interviews with open and close ended questions. The empirical research material was collected by interviewing of 38 elderly people (both men and women) who lived at home with family and in old age home. Data was analyzed by method of content analysis. The results of present study showed that loneliness was perceived as both positive and negative feeling. But majority of the older adults did not feel loneliness living in residential area as well as living in old age home. But in comparison people of old age home felt loneliness. The findings of this study show the importance of social interaction for elderly people living in residential area as well as living in old age home. The result will contribute further research on loneliness and elderly people.