The Importance of Spirituality in Later Life

Abstract

As an increasing number of older adults live longer lives, there has been increased interest in including spirituality in the bio-psycho-social model of assessment and treatment of the problems they encounter. What is often lacking in the literature on spirituality is consistency in the use of the various terms that contribute to the conceptual framework of spirituality, including such terms as purpose, meaning, and life themes. This article reviews terms relating to the concept of spirituality and offers a spirituality “mini-assessment” technique that may be used by social service providers who work with older adult clients. Such an assessment can be used to help elders identify their individual sources of spirituality, and that can empower and help them provide meaningful interpretations of their lives.

Key Words:

• Spirituality
• later life
• older adult counseling
• spirituality assessment