Abstract

Loneliness in old age is a complex phenomenon that takes into account elements of the person as well as their environment. However, little has been studied about the relationship between this loneliness and interpersonal conflict. The objective of this study is to describe how older people who feel loneliness identify important interpersonal conflicts. In-depth interviews were conducted of 30 people over 60 years of age who, at the time of the study, were receiving emotional support from associations that work to reduce loneliness in Barcelona (Spain). The block of questions corresponding to the most relevant interpersonal conflicts for the participants was analyzed through Atlas.ti. The analysis was carried out through the following themes: (1) conflict theme; (2) person’s involved; (3) life stage; (4) conflict’s resolution and (5) impact on health after this conflict. Older people reported conflicts that involved differences in decision-making or values, estrangement situation or because of mistreatment. Friends and family were mostly involved in such conflicts. Older people remembered conflicts mainly during aging and they felt those conflicts as unsolved. Finally, half of the sample expressed a negative impact on their health. Older people who find themselves in situations of chronic unwanted loneliness may find themselves in situations of interpersonal conflict that aggravate their social and support situation. The resolution of these conflicts or their mediation can be a complementary way of intervening in social relationships during old age that help prevent or mitigate loneliness.