ABSTRACT
This essay examines the dynamic relationship between spirituality and aging by highlighting the importance of spirituality as an active search for meaning in later life and by acknowledging that for many older people, religiousness and spirituality are interlaced with one another. It provides an overview of the three foci of gerontological research—age, aging, and aged people—and describes the predominantly cross-sectional, quantitative research on diverse experiences of aged persons conducted by psychologists of religion. The essay also notes the importance of studying similarities among older people and how they construct meaning as they age. After reviewing emerging research on the spiritual lives of older people, the essay offers practice recommendations, suggesting that in order to promote more individualized treatment plans for older people, clinicians must acknowledge the complexity of spirituality and pay particular attention to prayer, resilience, and religious coping. The essay concludes with recommendations that researchers and clinicians work to identify ways that spirituality can be cultivated (i.e., through engaging with the arts and/or nature) in later life, a time when many are coping with losses and are challenged by ageism. However, this can also be a time of growth when gains can be acknowledged and meaning can be garnered.
