The relationship of spirituality to health and mental health is not well understood or described. This relationship could provide for greater understanding of the issues associated with well being of chronically ill elders. In this study, 131 community dwelling chronically ill rural elders were interviewed in their homes by the author. Data were gathered specific to measures of health, mental health, role, and spirituality.
Findings include the very significant correlation between mental health and "closeness to God," the distinctions between religiosity and spirituality as they relate to mental health, and the importance of spirituality while coping with pain in chronic illness.
These findings suggest that spirituality is an important component in chronically ill elders coping with disease, disability, and pain. Possible interpretations of the data are offered. Implications for social work practice and education are addressed and discussed.
Learning Objectives: Recognize components of religiosity and spirituality that may correlate with health states. Understand the differential impact of religiosity and spirituality in well-being. Describe and construct clinical interventions based on clients' spiritual needs and concerns.
Keywords: Religion, Chronic Diseases
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.