The Empty Nest Syndrome: Ways to Enhance Quality of Life

Empty nest syndrome occurs as a result of urbanization and loosened relationships among family members. It may threaten the life quality of older adults and stability of society as a whole. This survey was designed to investigate the situation and factors that influence the life quality of a sample of older adults in a western state. Thirty-five respondents completed surveys that included questions relating to quality of life and living conditions of older adults living in the empty nest. This study showed that although most of the people did not live with their family members, the relationship with their family members appeared to greatly influence their life quality. It also showed the healthier they were and the more activities they participated in, the higher their life qualities were.