Mind wandering refers to spontaneous shifts of attention from the current task or environment toward internally generated thoughts. While mind wandering has been frequently examined using quantitative approaches, there is limited in-depth qualitative research on this topic. The aim of this study was to explore how older adults experience episodes of mind wandering in their everyday lives. Eight adults aged 65–83 years participated in semi-structured interviews, which were analyzed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis. The analysis resulted in four themes: Relationships as anchors in wandering thoughts, Mind wandering as serving multiple psychological functions, Time and events shaping mind wandering, and Experiencing a deeper sense of connection. 

Participants described mind wandering in later adulthood as a meaningful and dynamic experience rather than a random distraction. It was closely linked to emotionally significant relationships and to serving essential psychological functions. Mind wandering was also described as changing over time and as being increasingly linked to experiences of presence, gratitude, and connection. Importantly, both intentional and unintentional forms of mind wandering were present within the same individuals. The findings suggest that mind wandering may play a complex role in emotional processing and meaning-making in later life.