O luto da mulher de terceira idade

: a vivência de quem ficou viúva

Abstract

Introduction: This research is part of the theme of bereavement in palliative care and has as aim the understanding of the older women´s bereavement experience, after loss of spousal in palliative care. Material and method: The research was qualitative, a phenomenological one. Nine interviews were made, áudio recorded and with a follow transcription to analise the phenomen in study. Results: From the lived experience highlights their emotional expression of suffering and making sense through narrative (in relation to marriage, experience of the disease and personal history), the importance of social support and their own personal resources, including spirituality / religiosity. Conclusions: The integration of gerontology and geriatric knowledge in Palliative Care will be a facilitator of preventive, holistic and effective answers to the needs of this bereavement population.

Date of Award	2013
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	José Carlos Bermejo (Supervisor) & Ana Rita Camara Pestana de Almeida Alves de Almeida D' Eça (Supervisor)