Levensverhalen van kinderloze 60-plussers: reflecties op kinderloosheid en eenzaamheid doorheen de levensloop

Children are an important component in the lives of older adults, including in terms of social networks and care. Nevertheless, previous research from Flanders shows that childless older adults are not lonelier compared to older adults with children. This study therefore focuses on the experience of childless 60-plussers themselves, and seeks an answer to the question which themes in the narrative of childless older adults can explain why this group is not lonelier compared to older adults with children. Out of life story interviews with 12 childless older adults (60+), we identified 5 themes: being able to make space for other things, a sense of social exclusion, acceptance, giving meaning through other children, and loneliness. Linked to these themes, the participants experienced a duality of feelings: more negative feelings and wordings (e.g. missing out or not belonging) therefore alternated with positive experiences and opportunities (e.g. relief or freedom). Older people without children are a very heterogeneous group, with a lot of different views on their childless life and its impact on well-being. Childlessness is part of a person's life course, but is not always decisive in people's experiences and life events.