Spirituality: the Hindu perspective from a gerontologist’s viewpoint

ABSTRACT

The article focuses on synthesising spirituality and the gerontology perspective, with Hindu concepts and the search for meaning and purpose at the micro-level. Drawing from past research, empirical studies and interviews conducted in Asian communities the author applies the concepts of “karma,” “advaita” and “consciousness.” The Hindu belief that every human being has the potential to connect with the divine is discussed. The positive effects of spiritual pursuits and spiritual care are reviewed. The paper concludes with recommendations for greater self-awareness (at individual level), and mainstreaming of spirituality into psychosocial and medical care for older people.

KEYWORDS:

• Spirituality
• ageing
• culture
• Hinduism
• Asia

Acknowledgments

I wish to acknowledge the support of my husband, who has guided me in understanding Hindu concepts and the power of spirituality.

Disclosure statement

There is no conflict of interest.

Notes

1. For further understanding of the Hindu beleifs and principles please refer to “Hinduism at a Glance” published by the Central Chinmaya Mission Trust (2011). There are also many other publications that expound on the Hindu philosophy hence the reader may be able to find other sources as well. However, this publication is easy to read and comprehend.

2. This scale is available by emailing [email protected] The author A/P Vivian Lou shared it with me for academic purposes but the scale belongs to Tung Wah Hospitals, Hong Kong, that own the copyright for use. Personal communication with A/P Vivian Lou on 24 May 2018.

Additional information

Funding

No funding was received.