Factors contributing to hope among noninstitutionalized elderly

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Psychology
• Nursing

Background:

• Hope is a critical psychological resource for older adults.
• Understanding factors influencing hope is essential for promoting well-being in aging populations.
• Previous research has explored hope, but predictors in noninstitutionalized elderly require further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the level of hope in adults aged 65 and older.
• To identify variables that predict hope in this demographic.
• To inform nursing interventions aimed at enhancing hope.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive correlational design was employed.
• 169 noninstitutionalized individuals aged 65–94 years were surveyed.
• Data were collected on hope levels and potential predictor variables.

Main Results:

• Participants reported a moderately high level of hope.
• Social support, religious well-being, and health were significant predictors of hope.
• A health-promotion philosophy of care may foster greater hope than a treatment-focused approach.

Conclusions:

• Noninstitutionalized older adults generally possess a positive outlook.
• Interventions targeting social support, religious well-being, and health can enhance hope.
• Nursing practice should emphasize health promotion to support elderly clients' hope.