Spirituality and Aging: Research and Implications

Increasing attention to spirituality is an important trend in gerontology, human services, and health sciences. Spirituality is complex, overlaps with religion, infuses all human life, and therefore is difficult to study. Diverse methods are used in its investigation, and numerous scales measure its components. Almost all of the research reveals its significant connections with health and other aspects of well-being. Professional applications of the research findings have been limited by complex religious and cultural values, insufficient research, and ethical considerations. Unlimited opportunities for further study include the need to evaluate the impact of all religions and ideologies that claim to enhance spirituality.