Successful ageing amongst elderly women living independently in central areas of Pretoria, South Africa

Abstract

Using a qualitative research approach, in-depth interviews were employed to explore the life circumstances of twelve elderly women living alone in the central areas of Pretoria, South Africa. The Pretoria central areas have been characterised by substantial demographic shifts during the past two decades, largely due to major political and concomitant socio-economic changes in South Africa. The life worlds of the research participants were analysed in order to understand how they have adapted to these changes whilst growing older. Successful ageing and the life course perspective were key theoretical constructs used in analysing the life experiences and strategies of the participants in dealing with the challenges of old age within this specific context. It was found that participants who had overcome difficult challenges in previous life stages by relying on their own resources are the most likely to adjust comfortably to the challenges of old age as well as the complexities encountered in the diverse central areas of Pretoria.