Introduction
The empty nest syndrome (ENS) in older adults is becoming a social phenomenon in Iran. Although it is not a clinical disorder, it can have real effects on an individual’s life. It can lead to depression, alcohol addiction, marital conflicts, and identity crisis. As the aged population in Iran is increasing, there is a lack of research on the lived experiences of older adults with ENS, and considering the related biological, psychological, social, and economic factors. Therefore, this study aims to explore the lived experiences of older adults with ENS in Iran.

Methods
This is a qualitative phenomenological study. Participants were 17 older adults (11 females and 6 males) experiencing ENS in Tehran, Iran, in 2022. They had different number of children and educational levels. Sampling was done purposefully until reaching theoretical saturation. The inclusion criteria were having children left home for at least 2 years, having adequate cognitive abilities to understand psychological issues, being married or widow/widower, and age >65 years. In-depth interviews were used for collecting information. 

Findings
The lived experiences of ENS in older adults were categorized into six main themes (existential crisis, emotional turmoil, cognitive disorientation, functional decline, disruption in interpersonal relationships, and satisfaction with the transition period) and 23 subthemes.

Conclusion
Understanding the experiences of ENS from the perspective of older adults can provide a clear description of its meaning and experienced components. Generally, ENS can lead to increased social isolation in the elderly. The findings of this study can serve as a basis for therapists and geriatric specialists in Iran to understand older adults’ lived experiences of ENS and develop interventions for them and their families. Additionally, it can contribute to the promotion of gerontology knowledge and the improvement of the quality of life for older adults experiencing ENS.

Ethical Considerations

Compliance with ethical guidelines
For this study, ethical approval was obtained from Allameh Tabataba'i University (Code: IR.ATU.REC.1399.075). A written informed consent form was signed by all participants. They were free to leave the study at any time, and were assured of the confidentiality of their information.

Funding
This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

Authors' contributions
The authors contributed equally to preparing this paper

Conflicts of interest
The authors declared no conflict of interest.

Acknowledgments
The authors would like to thank all participants for their cooperation and also thank Dr. Rezgar Mohamadi and Dr. Mojtaba Haghani for their valuable comments.



 

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