Testing two elements of spirituality in depressed and non-depressed elders

Depression is a common source of morbidity and mortality among elders in North America and has a significant impact on their quality of life. Meaning in life and self transcendence, indicators of spirituality, have been linked to the experience of well-being in the elderly. Nurses are challenged to find ways to tap these natural resources as a means of addressing the serious problem of depression in the aged. The purpose of this study was to compare patterns of depression, meaning in life and self-transcendence as measured in three instruments in a group of elders 75 years of age and older. The Geriatric Depression Scale, Purpose in Life Test and Self-Transcendence Scale were completed by 77 elders residing independently or semi-independently in one of three retirement communities. Significant negative relationships were found between depression and meaning in life, and between depression and self-transcendence. A significant positive relationship was found between meaning in life and self-transcendence. Demographic data further contributed to patterns of depression and well-being in this group. The study conclusions support the importance of meaning in life and self-transcendence for well-being in the elderly. Based on the study results, suggestions are offered about ways to enhance health and well-being in this cohort.