Articulating the Ineffable: Explorations Into the Spiritual Lives of Old Women

Abstract

Research suggests that spirituality is important to a large percentage of the older adult population. In this qualitative study of 16 women aged 82 and older, I explore using in-depth interview experiences of spirituality over the life course. A narrative analysis of the interviews was performed and provided insights into the nature of their spiritual experiences. The results are presented as an interpretation of the participants' perceptions of their spirituality and spiritual experiences. Additionally, a narrative analysis is used for the interpretation of the difficulty in describing these experiences and the opportunities and challenges the term “spirituality” provides for older adults and researchers. Five types of narratives that emerged from data are discussed. These common narratives include the narrative of: conflation, continuity, confidence, connection, and caring. Implications for understanding spirituality and the role it plays in the lives of older adults are considered.

Keywords:

• Spirituality
• old women
• spiritual experiences
• narrative analysis

Acknowledgments

Partial support for this research was provided by NIH grant 5T32 AG00029-35. This article is a result of my dissertation. I would like to thank Dr. Kathryn McGrew at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio for her guidance, mentorship, and willingness to read countless drafts.