Exploring the Role of Spirituality in Aging (2HR)

This course explores the role of spirituality in aging, highlighting its significance in promoting well-being, resilience, and meaning in later life. Participants will examine current statistics and research on spirituality and aging, along with diverse spiritual and religious perspectives held by older adults. The course provides practical tools for assessing spiritual needs and integrating spiritual care into mental health and aging services. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the rationale for addressing spirituality as part of holistic care, especially during times of loss, life transitions, and end-of-life considerations. Clinicians will gain strategies to respectfully support spiritual expression, foster connection, and enhance quality of life in older populations.

Upon completion of this training participants will be able to:

• Identify the personal and cultural impacts of spirituality on an aging person’s well-being, physical, and mental health.
• Explain how aging and spirituality are connected to each other and relevant in elders’ lives.
• Describe at least three methods of identifying and supporting elders’ spirituality in clinical practice from a culturally competent skillset.

Instructor: Diane Bigler, LCSW, LSCSW

 

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