Spirituality and the elderly: nursing implications with nursing home residents

Spiritual care is integral to quality nursing care for nursing home residents. Spirituality can be defined as dynamic principles developed throughout the lifespan that guide a person's view of the world; influence his or her interpretation of a higher power, hope, morals, loss, faith, love, and trust; and provide structure and meaning to everyday activities. Spiritually focused nursing interventions include silent witnessing, serving as a liaison, and active listening. Nursing interventions for spiritual care can be divided into four dynamic phases: self-comfort, assessment, intervention, and evaluation. Spiritual well-being helps residents' total well-being and inner peace.