Posted: July 30th, 2023

The Significance of Spirituality in Very Late Adulthood: A Theoretical Perspective

Required reading resources.
• Hutchison, E. D. (2019). Dimensions of human behavior: The changing life course (6th ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.
o Chapter 10, “Very Late Adulthood” (pp. 359-383)
• Archley, R. (2006). Continuity, spiritual growth, and coping in later adulthoodLinks to an external site.. Journal of Religion, Spirituality, and Aging, 18(2–3), 19–29
• Mattison, D., Jayarantne, S., & Croxton, T. (2000). Social workers’ religiosity and its impact on religious practice behaviorsLinks to an external site.. Advances in Social Work, 1, 43–59. Retrieved from http://journals.iupui.edu/index.php/advancesinsocialwork/article/view/102

Post the following:
• Explain the correlation of spirituality with a sense of life meaning, connectedness to others, and well-being in very late adulthood.
• Describe a theoretical perspective on spiritual development during late adulthood.

Respond to two colleagues:
• Analyze the role religion and spirituality play in the coping process for individuals in late adulthood.

Response1
Often times spirituality is associated with religion. However, spirituality is more of a personal experience rather than being related to an institution. “Some aspects of spirituality pertain across the life course; however, the following themes become more relevant with aging: integrity, humanistic concern, changing relationships with others and greater concern for younger generations, relationship with a transcendent being or power, self-transcendence, and coming to terms with death” (Hutchison, 2018, pg. 370). As individuals enter the very late years of life, they begin to rapidly experience loss such as loss of loved ones, terminal illness, and disability. These are reasons for them to consider the meaning of life. As they lose their ability to care for themselves and become dependent on others, connectedness becomes an important part of their spiritual journey.

“The search for meaning is a central element of Erik Erikson’s eighth developmental task, referred to as maturity. It involves the challenge of ego integrity versus ego despair and centers on one’s ability to process what has happened in life and accept these experiences as integral to the meaning of life” (Hutchison, 2018, pg. 370). This theoretical perspective suggests that despite losses and challenges individuals who continue to grow in their very late years show wisdom and integrity.
Hutchison, E. D. (2018). Dimensions of Human Behavior (6th ed.). SAGE Publications, Inc. (US). https://bookshelf.vitalsource.com/books/9781544339337

Response2
Explain the correlation of spirituality with a sense of life meaning, connectedness to others, and well-being in very late adulthood.
Spirituality is a very personal experience. “There is often a conceptual division when describing religion and spirituality, with religion connected to an institution and spirituality being a more personal experience” (Hutchinson, p. 429). Spirituality because key in later life because as we all know none of us are going to live forever. At this stage in life the loss of family and friends has become more and more which leaves one to think of their own mortality and the age-old question what happens next. Belief in something or someone greater than ourselves and having a spiritual connection to them is what I believe provides comfort as we journey through our lives.
Describe a theoretical perspective on spiritual development during late adulthood.
As described by Erik Erikson, “the search for meaning is a central element of Erik Erikson’s (1963) eighth developmental task, referred to as maturity” (Hutchison, 2018, pg. 370). As individuals start to review their lives, they look through the experiences they had on the journey. One of the biggest questions that individuals ask themselves were their lives meaningful and what comes next.
Hutchison, E. D. (2018). Dimensions of Human Behavior (6th ed.). SAGE Publications, Inc. (US).

The Significance of Spirituality in Very Late Adulthood: A Theoretical Perspective

Introduction

Spirituality is a deeply personal and profound aspect of human existence that becomes increasingly significant as individuals progress through the later stages of life. While often associated with religious beliefs, spirituality encompasses a broader spectrum of experiences and emotions, encompassing feelings of interconnectedness, meaning, and well-being. This article explores the correlation of spirituality with a sense of life meaning, connectedness to others, and overall well-being in very late adulthood. Additionally, we will delve into a theoretical perspective on spiritual development during this crucial life stage.

The Correlation of Spirituality with Life Meaning, Connectedness, and Well-being in Very Late Adulthood
1.1 Sense of Life Meaning

In the context of very late adulthood, individuals confront the inevitability of their mortality and often experience significant losses, such as the passing of loved ones and the decline of physical and cognitive capacities. These experiences prompt a profound reflection on the meaning of life and one’s purpose in the world. As Erik Erikson’s theory suggests, this stage corresponds to the development of ego integrity versus ego despair, wherein individuals grapple with accepting the experiences of their lives as integral to the overall meaning (Hutchison, 2019, p. 370).

Spirituality plays a crucial role in this process, as it provides a framework for understanding and finding meaning in life’s challenges. By fostering a belief in a higher power or a transcendent being, individuals in very late adulthood can derive comfort and solace in the face of existential uncertainties.

1.2 Connectedness to Others

The later stages of life are often marked by a shift in social relationships, with the passing of peers, friends, and family members. This diminishing social circle can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. However, spirituality can act as a bridge, fostering a sense of interconnectedness with others, both living and deceased.

Spirituality provides a lens through which individuals can view their relationships as enduring connections that transcend physical presence. It allows for a deepening appreciation of the impact they have had on others’ lives and the legacies they leave behind. Moreover, spiritual practices, such as prayer or meditation, can create a sense of communion and unity, fostering emotional well-being and a sense of belongingness.

1.3 Well-being

The pursuit of spiritual growth in very late adulthood has been associated with improved well-being. Studies have shown that individuals who engage in spiritual practices, such as attending religious services or engaging in meditation, report higher levels of life satisfaction and lower levels of depression and anxiety (Archley, 2006). Spirituality provides a source of inner strength and resilience, enabling individuals to cope with the challenges of aging more effectively.

A Theoretical Perspective on Spiritual Development during Late Adulthood
Erik Erikson’s psychosocial theory postulates that development continues throughout the entire lifespan. In the eighth stage, often termed maturity or integrity versus despair, individuals in late adulthood strive to reconcile their life experiences and accept their mortality.

This theoretical perspective emphasizes that successful spiritual development during late adulthood is contingent on a sense of integrity and wisdom. As individuals reflect on their life’s journey, the ability to embrace the past with a sense of coherence and purpose is pivotal. Spirituality serves as a coping mechanism and a source of hope, enabling them to achieve a profound understanding of life’s complexities and uncertainties, leading to a sense of fulfillment and completeness.

Conclusion

In very late adulthood, spirituality takes on a critical role in shaping individuals’ experiences of meaning, connectedness, and well-being. As individuals grapple with mortality and navigate through significant losses, spirituality provides solace and fosters a sense of interconnectedness with others. Erik Erikson’s theoretical perspective highlights the importance of spiritual growth as a means to achieve integrity and wisdom in late adulthood.

Overall, embracing spirituality in very late adulthood can lead to a more meaningful and fulfilling life, allowing individuals to approach the end of their journey with grace and contentment.

References:

Hutchison, E. D. (2019). Dimensions of Human Behavior: The Changing Life Course (6th ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.

Archley, R. (2006). Continuity, spiritual growth, and coping in later adulthood. Journal of Religion, Spirituality, and Aging, 18(2–3), 19–29.

Mattison, D., Jayarantne, S., & Croxton, T. (2000). Social workers’ religiosity and its impact on religious practice behaviors. Advances in Social Work, 1, 43–59. Retrieved from http://journals.iupui.edu/index.php/advancesinsocialwork/article/view/102

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