Conclusion
In conclusion, this is one of the first studies to explore weakness and ageing from the perspective of older adults themselves. Participants in the current study conceived of weakness as the antithesis of strength but described it primarily in terms of their personhood; physical strength was found implicitly in their conception of weakness as inability. Further research into the psychosocial dimension, especially ‘turning inward’ as a potentially critical and reversible point in the weakness process, would be valuable for practitioners as a basis for enhancing more active efforts at staying strong. Potentially, the end result could prevent further disability and weakness.