The Link Between Relationships and Meaning in Life

Over the years, relational communication has evolved from primarily in-person to hybrid telephone-computer engagement, to real-time texting. Decades ago, virtual interaction was viewed as a young person’s game. Not anymore. Older people routinely use technology for many of the same reasons as their younger counterparts: to connect and communicate, to work and to play, and to explore the world and keep up with neighborhood news. As we age and begin to face physical challenges, however, technology can provide unique assistance in compensating for decreased capacities, allowing people to maintain meaning, autonomy, and quality of life. Research explains.

Making Meaning Through Relationships and Autonomy

Suvi-Maria Saarelainen et al. (2022) studied the importance of relationships later in life.[i] They began by acknowledging that experiencing life as having meaning in our older years contributes to health and holistic well-being. Noting that many people live in their own homes while experiencing reduced capacities over time, they recognize the need to discover new ways to prompt well-being in old age. Studying online data collected from discussion groups on a channel called Service TV (STV), they found that relationality is strongly associated with meaning in life for older people.

One area of increasing relevance as we age that contributes to maintaining meaning is personal independence. Recognizing that individual autonomy and meaningful activity are important to well-being, Saarelainen et al. explain that respect and support for the autonomy of aging individuals is critical. Because many older people desire to remain in their own homes even while experiencing diminished capacity, family support is key, as loved ones can assist in choosing and negotiating workable, autonomous living arrangements to facilitate aging parents and relatives maintaining quality of life.

Saarelainen et al. also recognize that relationships impact individual sense of meaning. They report that older people felt a relational gap more strongly when they were distanced from family, lacked same age peers, or were bereaved or widowed. On the other hand, participating in activities with peers produced deep joy and a sense of connectedness. For participants, STV provided a way to create meaningful relationships, demonstrating that relationality can be created and maintained through technology.

Saarelainen et al. conclude that many people experience meaning in life through a network of relationships. Meaningfulness is reinforced through having opportunities to connect and share, feel a sense of belonging, and be cared for. Loss of meaning is created through vulnerability, feeling different, and grieving the loss of loved ones who have passed away.

Technology Cannot Replace Loved Ones

Relationally, we don’t grow out of craving human connection—in person. Saarelainen et al. note that although technology facilitates sharing and caring for older people, there are ethical issues to consider. Technologically facilitated care deprives patients of relational satisfaction only possible in person. Indeed, their study participants reminded them that phone calls do not replace live meetings with family members, a reality that translates into the use of technical-assisted care. Healthy connections can bring meaningfulness, belonging, and joy later in life, although it will not replace meeting people in person.

So, with aging loved ones with decreasing capabilities, we can help maintain meaningfulness through autonomy by providing technological assistance and reliable virtual connection through easy-to-use communication. And then enjoy timeless love and laughter through visiting in person as often as we can.

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