Spiritual Well-Being, Spiritual Growth, and Spiritual Care for the Aged: A Cross-Faith and Interdisciplinary Effort

ABSTRACT This article highlights the significance of spiritual well-being (SWB) and spiritual growth for the care and the study of aged populations. From a cross-faith and interdisciplinary perspective, a working definition of SWB is elaborated based on the history of efforts to define SWB and on the recognition of some socio-demographic changes. The relationships among adverse conditions, spiritual growth, and SWB are discussed. Finally, professional care for the spiritual needs of the aged is advocated as they try to cope with negative life events. Related psychological theories are introduced to assist health professionals in caring for the SWB of aged persons.