INTIMACY IN NURSING-HOME FRIENDSHIPS

Although considerable attention has been paid to the importance of friendship for older persons, relatively little is directed toward examining friendships in nursing homes. This article reports the findings of a study of intimacy in friendships among nursing home residents. Findings indicate that there is little intimacy in these relationships, which are best characterized as friendly relations. Although many residents are not likely to discuss personal matters with friends, feelings about life in the facility are a frequent topic of conversation. Friendships provide pleasant interaction, companionship, and social support without demanding too much from the participants. Implications of these findings are discussed. © 1991 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.