Psychosocial characteristics of older people living in frontline territories

The paper presents the results of a study of the psychosocial characteristics of older people living in frontline territories. The sample consisted of 30 older people who do not have mental disorders and reside permanently in Donetsk (Russian Federation). The average age of respondents was 72.9+2.6 years. The author's questionnaire and psychological methods were used (the Maddy resilience test and the life purpose orientations test by D.A. Leontiev). Statistical processing of the obtained results was carried out using the SPSS 20.0 program, the Mann - Whitney criterion was applied. It was revealed that the psychosocial characteristics of older people living in frontline territories are the deprivation of social ties, the loss of close people and relatives, health problems, and the presence of limitations in everyday life, at the same time they have stable value orientations, an interest in life, and resilience. Older people who are forced into a military emergency have existential courage, strong control of their emotions and behavior, and the ability to purposefully coordinate their actions. The results of the study can be used in the development of psychological support trainings and the provision of various kinds of psychosocial assistance to older people living in frontline territories.