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Spiritual Needs of the Aged

It has been proven that when spiritual needs are addressed, one's quality of life improves. Aging individuals have many needs as they struggle with loss, grief, transition, loneliness or lack of purpose. They may have a need to:

• be loved and accepted
• belong and connect with others
• feel valued and cared for
• be more independent
• feel useful and needed
• have purpose and meaning
• share thoughts and feelings
• share their stories, joys and sorrows
• be heard and validated
• be understood and remembered
• address hopelessness and despair
• find God in life's struggles
• trust God in everyday situations
• work through guilt, unforgiveness or regrets in life
• explore the meaning of life's challenges and suffering
• have someone sit and cry with them
• be touched or hugged
• explore the longings of their souls

Provision of Spiritual Care

A spiritual care provider provides spiritual care. They are trained professionals endorsed by a faith community. Other staff members, residents, family and loved ones also provide spiritual care in a variety of ways.