Spirituality and aging seem to go hand in hand, due to how many aged individuals turn to spirituality as they enter their golden years. Furthermore, spirituality has alleged effects of encouraging healthy aging among the elderly. However, what exactly is the correlation between spirituality and healthy aging?
What Is Spirituality?
Spirituality is an extremely broad concept that everyone has their definition of, leading to spiritual folks practicing their spiritual beliefs in different ways. However, the basis of spirituality usually revolves around a belief in or a connection to something beyond themselves that is cosmic or divine. For example, those who believe in a higher power often turn to religion as an answer. However, some spiritual atheists devote themselves to philosophies and values instead. Regardless of religious background, many spiritual individuals frequently contemplate questions about existentialism and otherworldly entities such as:
- What is our purpose in life?
- What happens after death?
- How should I and others live life?
Spirituality and Aging
Many factors play into how older adults start tapping into their spirituality as they approach their golden years. Such factors make expressions of spirituality such as religion more attractive or relatable to them. Some factors include:
- Retirement
Retirement is a drastic change for some older adults, especially those who were deeply involved in the workplace. Due to the challenges in adjusting to their new everyday lifestyle, some spiritual adults could start focusing on spirituality more as a way to feel more stable and grounded about their place in the world.
- Additional Free Time
Retirement usually entails more idle time, giving individuals more opportunity to reflect upon themselves and contemplate spiritual truths without distractions such as work.
- Mortality
As one approaches their mature years, it’s natural for them to consider their mortality and the future after that. This could lead to them pondering about their spirit, the afterlife, and their loved ones during the aftermath.
Regardless of the reason, for most spiritual older adults, it leads to them having improved emotional wellness during such a turbulent time. Hence, it improves their mental wellness, which improves their physical wellness in turn.
How Do The Elderly Practice Spirituality?
There are a plethora of spiritual activities that aged adults can engage in to become more spiritually attuned with themselves and the world. While they aren’t necessary for one to adopt a spiritual lifestyle, they’re commonly practiced as they encourage a deeper connection to the world, enlivening one’s spirituality.
For the large majority of Christian Americans, you could say that attending mass and celebrating important Christian holidays such as the Easter season would be a form of spirituality as well, helping them to feel closer to Christ.
Spiritual atheists also explore their spirituality often through non-religious activities such as volunteering. Volunteering to many spiritual folks is a wonderful way to spend time contributing to a worthwhile cause, feeling more connected with their community, and improving the world through their contributions.
Explore Your Spiritual Side at Discovery Village At Boynton Beach
Spiritual activities are always more fruitful with friends! Discovery Village At Boynton Beach connects you or an elderly loved one with like-minded, similarly-aged companions. Learn about our senior living options for more details!
