Spiritual Life Review by Mary Miller Lewis (2001) discusses the opportunities the older adult receives through the review process. Spirituality has been linked to positive physical health and inversely related to physical illness. Two spiritual needs are seen across all lists, and seem to be important for counselors to discuss with adults who identify as spiritual or religious or both: (1) dealing with death, and (2) discussing meaning and purpose.
Older adults face many adjustments as they approach death. Robert N. Butler’s (1971) opinion is that life review is an important element in an individual’s overall adjustment to death, a continuation of personality development right to the very end of life (Vander Zanden, 2003).
The life review process enhances an elders self-understanding, personal meaning, self-esteem and the meaning of life. This has a positive effect on the health of the elderly according to Mary Miller Lewis. The use of spirituality in counseling is an option to help resolve issues and adjust to a treatment plan.
References:
Vander Zanden, J. W. (2003). Human Development. NY: McGraw Hill
Lewis, M. M., (2001). Spirituality, counseling, and elderly: An introduction to the spiritual life review. Journal of Adult Development, 8(4), 231-240.
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