THE IMPACT OF LONELINESS ON THE PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING OF ELDERLY PEOPLE IN BAKUNG KIDUL VILLAGE

Abstract

This study was motivated by the increasing cases of loneliness among the elderly, which have an impact on declining psychological well-being, particularly among elderly people who live alone in Bakung Kidul Village. The research problems include: (1) what loneliness is like among the elderly in Bakung Kidul Village, (2) what the condition of their psychological well-being is, and (3) how loneliness affects their psychological well-being. This study used a qualitative approach with a case study method. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation involving elderly participants and supporting informants such as family members, neighbors, and elderly posyandu cadres. The results show that the level of loneliness among elderly people varies. Informant TA experienced mild loneliness because she still received support from family and neighbors, while HAZ experienced loneliness due to physical limitations. Informant AY felt lonely because of a lack of meaningful activities, and WS showed the most severe loneliness due to emotional distance from her children. Loneliness affects the emotional condition of elderly people, such as the emergence of sadness, anxiety, low self-esteem, and withdrawal from the social environment. Elderly people with good social support have more stable psychological well-being than those who experience family conflict or minimal social interaction. In addition, the study found that supportive counseling services, family assistance, and social activities through elderly posyandu can serve as effective interventions to reduce loneliness and improve the psychological well-being of elderly people.