Experiences of loneliness among older deaf adults who use sign language

Loneliness is recognized worldwide as a risk to well-being and health. It emerges from the discrepancy between our expectations of social relationships and the reality. However, very little is known about the experiences of loneliness among older deaf adults. The aim of the study was to describe the experiences and expressions of loneliness among 12 older deaf adults who use sign language. We interviewed them, and the interview transcripts were analyzed inductively. Loneliness manifested itself in a variety of ways in the narratives, facial expressions, postures, movements, gestures, and the very individual-specific signing of the respondents. The narratives illustrated the loneliness they experienced and how they coped with it. To our knowledge, this is one of the first studies on loneliness among older deaf adults who use sign language. It should be acknowledged: Discovering and understanding this hidden phenomenon is the key to alleviating it. Future studies should explore tailored interventions and inclusive communication strategies to alleviate loneliness. Involving older deaf adults who use sign language in cocreating solutions will be essential.