Aging and Spirituality: Spiritual Dimensions of Aging Theory, Research, Practice, and Policy

During the later years of life, many people devote energy to a process of spiritual awakening and self-discovery. Yet the helping professionals who work with the elderly are not always prepared to understand or deal with the spiritual concerns of their clients. Aging and Spirituality comprehensively surveys the issues of spirituality, from the groundwork of basic definitions to detailed assessments of the role it plays in the lives of the elderly and on to suggested directions for further research. This book's unique approach combines scholarly research and practical nuts-and-bolts suggestions for service delivery. By drawing from many disciplines and professions, it offers fresh perspectives to even those practitioners already familiar with the most effective spiritual techniques their own field can offer. By integrating spiritual issues into the theoretical framework of social gerontology, Aging and Spirituality will help you understand the scientific foundations, practical applications, and public policy implications of spirituality for older adults. To view an excerpt online, find the book in our QuickSearch catalog at www.HaworthPress.com.