Abstract

Objectives: This study explores the experience of loneliness and isolation among elderly individuals in rural Arab communities within Palestine 1948, through understanding their personal narratives and self-perceptions of their social status. Methods: The research adopted a qualitative approach, using semi-structured interviews as the primary data collection tool with a purposive sample of five participants from Arraba al-Batuf (three men and two women) aged between 69 and 75 years. Results: The findings revealed a fundamental contradiction in the elderly's experience of loneliness, as they perceive it as a basic need similar to food and sleep, yet simultaneously seek to overcome it when it becomes painful. Participants demonstrated diversity in the channels they use to narrate their personal stories and express themselves, including social media, political activity, music, social gatherings, and family relationships. Conclusions: A set of practical and scientific recommendations can be proposed to reduce this phenomenon and enhance the quality of life of older adults in society, including: the need to strengthen social communication between older adults and their family members by organizing regular family gatherings, and encouraging children and grandchildren to spend quality time with the elderly, as this has a direct impact on alleviating feelings of isolation and enhancing their sense of belonging and emotional support.