Spirituality
Having a personal belief system that provides meaning and purpose
Spirituality
is a belief system that integrates all aspects of personhood such as compassion,
respect for life and existence, and relationships with the self, others, and the
community. Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, religion is
only one component of spirituality. Learn more.
Religion is a critical part of the fabric of our society. An estimated 75 percent of older adults (60 plus) in the United States report that religion is an important aspect of their lives. Learn more.
Until recently, religion was largely ignored by social scientists in gerontology. Recent research, however, has found repeated encouraging connections between religious adherence and positive health among both younger and older adults. Learn more.
The rapid growth of the older population is going to place much higher demands on our health and social services delivery systems in terms of cost and resources. Given these anticipated costs and the positive effects of spirituality and religious participation on health outcomes, policymakers today are asking how to extend these benefits through a more formal involvement of religious organizations in the actual delivery of services. Learn more.
There are practical ways to link the religious communities and service for older adults. Learn more.
Resources
Spirituality Issue 
Spirituality facts, trends and issues
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Updated: November 2, 2007
