Positive Emotions Profiles among the Elderly Living in a Nursing Home

Elderly people living in nursing homes are often associated with declining psychological conditions due to social limitations and distance from family. However, few studies have described how the elderly can still experience positive emotions in these situations. This study aims to explore the positive emotions of the elderly living in a nursing home. The theoretical framework draws on the theory of positive emotions by Shiota et al. This study used a qualitative approach with a phenomenological method to understand the meaning of participants’ positive emotional experiences. Participants consisted of four elderly (two males and two females) living in a nursing home, and were between 65 and 85 years of age. Data were obtained through semi-structured interviews and the seven dimensions of Shiota Dispositions of Positive Emotions as a reference. Data validity was tested using member checking. The results showed that all seven dimensions of positive emotions emerged with varying intensity and expression across participants. Joy and satisfaction were the most dominant and stable dimensions, while amusement and awe were more limited. Elderly women tend to display positive, relational emotions, while elderly men emphasize self-esteem and feelings of worthiness. The emergence of positive emotions is influenced by internal factors such as self-acceptance, meaning of life, and spirituality, as well as external factors such as social relationships and nursing home services.