Spiritual well-being and spiritual practices in elderly depressed psychiatric inpatients

J Pastoral Care Counsel. 2011 Spring-Summer;65(1-2):3:1-11.

Abstract

This study's aims were to describe the spirituality of depressed elderly psychiatric inpatients and to examine associations among spirituality, depression, and quality of life (QOL). Forty-five persons participated. Most reported frequent, stable spiritual practices and experiencing spiritual comfort and guidance. Some reported spiritual distress and changes in spirituality. During hospitalization, participants demonstrated increased spiritual well-being (SWB) and peacefulness, and reduced hopelessness, worthlessness, and guilt. Positive associations were found between SWB and QOL and negative associations between SWB and depression.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Depressive Disorder / psychology*
  • Depressive Disorder / therapy
  • Female
  • Geriatric Assessment / methods
  • Health Status
  • Hospitalization
  • Humans
  • Inpatients / psychology*
  • Male
  • Quality of Life / psychology*
  • Religion and Psychology*
  • Spirituality*
  • United States