Social exclusion and psychological resilience in older adults in Turkey

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between social exclusion and psychological resilience in older adults. METHODS: The sample of the study consisted of 150 older adults over the age of 65 who applied to three Family Health Centers located in the Southeast of Turkey. While collecting data, the "Introductory Information Form", "Social Exclusion Scale in the Elderly" (SESE) and "Brief Resilience Scale" (BRS) were used. Data were collected by the researcher through face-to-face interviews with individuals. RESULTS: The BRS total mean score was 12.63±5.78, while the SESE total mean score was 70.29±12.45. A statistically significant negative relationship was found between the BRS total score and SESE total score of the individuals participating in the study (r=-0.334, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Social exclusion levels of the older adults included were high, their psychological resilience levels were low, and as their social exclusion levels increased, their psychological resilience levels decreased. Psychological resilience and social exclusion levels were especially related to education level, income level and perceived well-being level. It is thought that the results of the study will raise awareness about older adults and the aging process and will guide social policies and nursing interventions.