God Changed Their Lives: The Value of Religion in the Elderly

摘要

A descriptive phenomenological study of important life experiences of elderly Christians in Taiwan was conducted to explore how religion influences their lives. Three themes emerged from the responses of participants, offering insight into how religious beliefs impact the elderly. The ancient prophet Moses wrote, "The length of our days is seventy years-or eighty, if we have the strength; yet their span is but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away" (Psalm 90:10, NIV). For the elderly, the meaning and value of life may constantly be threatened with hazards and challenges. Adversities can include retiring from the workplace, changing role and status, feeling neglected and loss of dignity, losing loved ones or treasured items, and fewer interpersonal connections, which can all lead to social isolation. According to Lee (2008), these problems are not only considered social and psychological, but also spiritual. These conflicts and problems may lead to disappointment, depression, and frustration for the elderly (Tseng & Tun, 2007). However, it has been suggested that religion can help people find the meaning of life through firm beliefs (Mackenzie, Rajagopal, Mei-bohm, & Lavizzo-Mourey, 2000;Tam, 2007). Furthermore, when older people face loss, it is believed that reEgion and spirituality can be the source of their peace (Mei-Chen & Yang, 2005).