Spirituality and well-being in later life

Abstract

The aim of the study was to explore the relevance of Spirituality as a determinant of health in the Maltese community and to identify the relation of spirituality to the perceived health reported by the older persons above the age of 60 years in order to formulate policies in health care for improving the quality of life of the older persons. An exploratory qualitative approach was used to collect the data. Interviews were conducted with active community dwelling older persons attending the University of Third Age. The recorded interviews were transcribed thematically for discussion. Analysis of the data could identify the different meanings for spirituality and that spirituality is not just religion. Spiritual realization as well as spiritual issues is found more :frequently with older persons and it plays a significant role in the person's perceived overall well being. Addressing to Spirituality and spiritual needs irrespective of religiosity and other ideologies is necessary for improving the quality of life of older persons. The study affirms that there is a strong association of spirituality with the well being of older persons and suggests that spiritual caring should be incorporated in the health care system.