著者

加藤 謙介

出版者

九州保健福祉大学

雑誌

九州保健福祉大学研究紀要 (ISSN:13455451)

巻号頁・発行日

vol.12, pp.21-29, 2011-03

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In this study, the relationship between pet animals and elderly residents in need of care was examined using a narrative approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven elderly residents of Nobeoka-city, Miyazaki, and with the social workers assigned to them. The author enquired about the relationship between the elderly individuals and their pets and focused on the benefits or difficulties associated with the animals in daily life. The analysis of narratives focused not only on the narrative content, but also on the manner in which the stories were narrated. The narratives fell into two general categories: (1) narratives including attachment and emotional bonding with the pet, based on a"model story"about the pet, and (2) narratives of the individuals own life story structured by their relationship with their pets. It is suggested that relationships with pet animals may contribute to the process of reconstructing the life story of elderly individuals.