Meaning Through Occupation: A Qualitative Study of Spirituality in Older Adults

Spirituality is recognized in the U.S. occupational therapy (OT) practice framework and several practice models but it is not consistently addressed in practice. This study explored how older adults understand spirituality and which occupations they consider spiritual. This descriptive qualitative study involved interviews of 37 older adults. Transcribed interview data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Four themes emerged: (a) reflection was important for participants' understanding of spirituality and spiritual occupations, (b) most participants linked spirituality to a higher being or personal values, (c) spirituality and spiritual occupations provide positive life influence, and (d) many occupations can be spiritual. Views on spirituality and spiritual occupations are individualized and often not recognized by participants. Practitioners should initiate discussions with clients related their views on spirituality and how it is enacted in meaningful occupations.