The Role of Existential Beliefs Within the Relation of Centenarians ’ Health and Well-Being

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to explore the role of existential beliefs in mediating the influence of health on centenarians ’ well-being. A total of 80 centenarians (mean age 101.1; SD = 1.3; 81.3 % women) with no/minor cognitive impairment were included. The OARS questionnaire for diseases and functional capacity (ADL, IADL), the Satisfaction with Life Scale, and the existential beliefs subscale were used for data collection. The findings suggest that existential resources are a crucial element for mitigating the impact of health constraints in subjective well-being in this population. Appropriate models of intervention for very old age that recognize the importance of religion, spirituality, and meaning of l ife are to be considered.

Source: Journal of Religion and Health - June 17, 2017 Category: Medical Ethics Source Type: research