Aging Population and Empty Nest Syndrome in the Process of Demographic Transformation: Social Reflections of Family Isolation
Öz
The family, a deeply rooted social institution, has undergone significant changes over time due to biological, social, economic, and cultural factors. One major factor driving these changes is the demographic transition, which refers to the shift from high birth and death rates to lower ones. This transition reshapes population structures and, consequently, family dynamics. Declining birth rates have contributed to global population ageing, and the traditional extended family model is increasingly being replaced by nuclear or single-person households. These changes have weakened social support networks. A natural result is the growing number of elderly individuals living alone—often because their children have moved away for education, work, or marriage, or because they never had children. This phase of life, marked by role loss and difficulty adapting, can lead to emotional distress known as Empty Nest Syndrome. As family structures continue to evolve, older adults are experiencing this condition. This study explores how demographic transition and changing family dynamics contribute to the rise of Empty Nest Syndrome among the elderly. In the literature review, databases such as Google Scholar, DergiPark, ULAKBİM, Elsevier, and Taylor & Francis were used, and searches were conducted using keywords such as “empty nest,” “demographic transformation,” and “old age.” In addition, data from TurkStat (Turkish Statistical Institute), UN reports, and relevant books were also included in the study.
Anahtar Kelimeler
Ageing, demographic transformation, empty nest syndrome
Destekleyen Kurum
This study was not supported by any other institutions.
Etik Beyan
The author(s) declare that all preparation processes of this study were conducted in accordance with ethical principles and scientific citation standards. In the event of any violation, Afyon Kocatepe University Journal of Social Sciences bears no responsibility; all liability rests with the authors of the article. Since this study does not require approval from an ethics committee, there is no information such as the name of the committee, date, or approval number.
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