A STUDY OF NOSTALGIA IN OLD AGE PEOPLE: EXPLORING MEMORIES OF ADULTHOOD

Abstract

This study aims at identifying the nature of nostalgic memories experienced by the old age people in their past times, specifically young adulthood, as well as the emotions related to it. It also focuses on the impact of their past experiences on their present life as
well as future life. To study the individual nostalgic experiences, an interview method was used in which a total of 10 participants (5 married couples) were interviewed using a semi- structured questionnaire. The verbatims were then analysed using thematic analysis which shows their past life experiences, the best phase of their life, things that make them nostalgic, as well as people they remember from their past. The analysis of the data shows the significant past memories recalled by the participants and how things have changed with time. In addition to this, the present research also shows the differences in the experiences of males and females as well as the differences or similarities between spouses about the memories recalled from the past.