How did Chinese older drifters re-establish social networks to mitigate their loneliness in new residential surroundings: a qualitative study in Nanjing, China.

backgroundIn recent years, there has been a noticeable rise in the number of older individuals in China who have migrated to urban areas to support their adult children or care for their grandchildren. However, due to their separation from their hometowns and familiar social networks, a prevailing sense of loneliness has taken hold. Re-establishing social networks is a crucial means of alleviating their loneliness.

objectiveThis study aims to explore how older individuals who have migrated to unfamiliar residential areas establish social connections to mitigate their feelings of loneliness.

methodThe method of inductive content analysis was used to collect and analyze data. Participants were recruited based on the following eligibility criteria: (1) males aged 60 years and older, and females aged 55 years and older, (2) cohabitation with their adult children for at least three months each year, and (3) the ability to understand questions and respond effectively. A total of 18 participants took part in in-depth, semi-structured interviews. The interview guide used in this study was developed through extensive research discussions.

resultChinese older drifters have adopted various strategies to establish social connections and combat their loneliness. These include utilizing communal spaces, engaging in activities with their grandchildren, and participating in community-organized public events. The formation of new social bonds depends on factors such as the frequency of interaction, shared experiences and interests, and existing acquaintance relationships. Older drifters maintain these connections through regular online communication and offline group activities. However, sustaining meaningful and lasting relationships proves challenging due to the mobile nature of older drifters, making it difficult to maintain these social networks and friendships over the long term.

conclusionOlder drifters who relocate to urban areas often find themselves in a new environment and disconnected from their familial and social networks, leading to a pervasive sense of loneliness. Hence, re-establishing social networks in the new residential surroundings is crucial in mitigating their feelings of loneliness. Society, communities, families, and older drifters themselves need to make concerted efforts to facilitate the expansion of social networks, thereby easing their loneliness.