Sensing sense and mobility at the end of the life course: A methodology of embodied interaction

In this chapter a methodology of embodied interaction is presented, which is influenced by Laura U. Marks´ (Marks 2002) haptic epistemology. Marks is inspired by postphenomenology and rhizomic theory from Deleuze and Guattari. The methodology of embodied interaction is examplified through a case study of a Danish 83-year old man, Howard, who is also a representative of elderly Danish residents living in Turkey. Their situation is imprinted with mobility, and the onset of physical or mental decline may have serious consequences for the continuation of living abroad, moving around. Howard is struggling with memory loss, which is impeding his life as a retired migrant. The method of embodied interaction is used in order to sense and understand his sensing of the process of mental decline. This is exemplified by three analytic perspectives: touch, embodied map, and materialised mind. The methodology presented contributes with a focus on understanding based on sensouos theory which implies embodied interaction and an active co-construction of meaning by ethnographer as well as by reader.
This chapter's discussion of a methodology that values the senses adds richness to research on the life course, drawing attention to aspects of our lives that often seem intangible yet are full of meaning.