A importância da religiosidade no processo de envelhecimento

: um estudo comparativo entre idosos institucionalizados e não institucionalizados na paróquia de São Vicente

Abstract

Ageing is a complex process that involves multiple dimensions of human life, including spiritual and religious aspects that play a significant role in the individual and community experience of the elderly. This exploratory study carried out in the parish of São Vicente, in Braga, investigated the importance of religiosity in the ageing process in 63 elderly people, both institutionalised and non-institutionalised, using a qualitative approach. The interviews revealed a wide variety of perspectives on how religiosity influences various domains of life in old age. Participants described religious practices that ranged from deeply integrated to nominally affiliated, reflecting the diversity in incorporating religious beliefs into values, behaviours and personal relationships. Religion emerged as an essential source of meaning, moral guidance and community cohesion, promoting resilience and coping strategies. While some found comfort and peace through faith and prayer, others reported more ambivalent experiences or even emptiness in the absence of religious practices. As well as influencing emotional well-being, religiosity played a crucial role in adapting to the challenges of ageing, contributing to mental health and promoting values such as tolerance and emotional support in interpersonal relationships. However, the specific nature of religiosity resulted in significant variations in its effects on personal relationships, shaped by personal beliefs and levels of religious involvement. This study highlighted the dynamics of spiritual development throughout life and the influence of individual experiences on the practice and perception of religiosity among the elderly.

Date of Award	17 Oct 2024
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Eduardo Duque (Supervisor)