“I feel bad… weak, miserable, left behind, defeated, useless…”: A phenomenological qualitative study of frailty in nursing home residents
Geriatric Nursing, vol.72, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, SSCI, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 72
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2026.104137
- Journal Name: Geriatric Nursing
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, AgeLine, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Health Research Premium Collection (ProQuest)
- Keywords: Fraility, Nursing, Nursing home, Older adults, Qualitative research
- Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Background Frailty, which is expected to increase in prevalence and incidence among older adults, is a significant public health concern. This qualitative study was conducted to explore the perspectives and experiences of nursing home residents regarding frailty. Method The study was conducted using a phenomenological qualitative research design. Data were collected through semi-structured face-to-face interviews with 18 older adults aged 65 and over living in a nursing home in Türkiye between July and August 2025. The interview form was prepared in line with the relevant literature, the interviews were transcribed, and the data obtained were systematically analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Three themes emerged from the qualitative data: (i) interpretations of frailty and aging, (ii) experiences of frailty: restriction, fear, and disconnection and (iii) coping and psychological adaptation to frailty. The findings revealed that participants were generally unfamiliar with the concept of frailty; however, they described physical weakness, dependency, and limited mobility as its primary indicators. A decline in social relationships, along with feelings of loneliness and being forgotten, was found to exacerbate frailty, whereas inner resources such as family bonds, love of life, and mental resilience emerged as protective factors. Conclusion Due to its multidimensional nature, frailty requires a holistic assessment of nursing home residents encompassing both physical and psychosocial aspects. It is critically important for nurses working in nursing homes to identify frailty at an early stage, monitor it regularly, and implement preventive interventions to maintain the health and well-being of older individuals.