O papel da religiosidade nos idosos institucionalizados

Abstract

The present investigation on the importance of religiosity in aging arises from the need to reflect on the way we think about old age. Therefore, it alludes to the possibility of aging with quality of life and happiness considering the religious/spiritual aspects of the elderly. Given the scarcity of scientific research in Portugal on religiosity/spirituality in the elderly, we hope to be able to contribute to increasing knowledge on this topic. The aim of this study is to analyse the relationship established between religiosity and aging process. Methodology: Application of a self-composed questionnaire survey. Thirty-five elderly aged between 65 and over, of both genders, users of nursing homes in the city of Braga, in particular the S. José Asylum and the São Lázaro Social Centre, were interviewed. The conclusions of the study show that the institutionalised elderly seek religious activities, such as praying and participating in the Eucharist. As regards their religious and value dimension, we found that older people have a strong connection to religion at the most difficult times of their lives. We found that, so far, institutionalisation has not had any influence on the elderly's religious practice, although they are aware of the importance of religion in their lives because, according to them, institutionalisation provides moments for religious experience. Therefore, we concluded that ageing plays an important role in how institutionalised older people deal with the adversities inherent to the circumstances of ageing and their own condition of being institutionalised.

Date of Award	2 Mar 2023
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Eduardo Jorge Gomes da Costa Duque (Supervisor)