Does spirituality assist in the recovery of an older person with depression?

Candidate

Anneke Bull (Master of Philosophy)

Synopsis

It is recognised that older persons face many changes and losses. These losses can be loss of family, friends, independence, income and becoming reliant on a pension or superfund. Accompanied are the physical changes that can manifest into chronic pain, illness or lifestyle changes. It is generally believed that these losses and changes are contributing factors towards depression in the older person (Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing, 2001; Koenig & Lawson, 2004; Manthorpe & Iliffe, 2005).

Literature shows that spirituality builds resilience, gives hope and a sense of belonging. Spirituality is described as an internal driving force that motivates the positive emotions of a person leading to a sense of hope and an ability of coping. Belief in a connection with a higher being may allow a person to transcend or more successfully cope with physical pain or emotional distress (van Loon, 2007; Bouma, 2006; McSherry, 2006; Russell & Kuruvilla, 2006; Idler, 1995).

Through using the grounded theory research method, it is expected that interviews will contribute to a deeper understanding of the role of spirituality in the recovery of older persons affected by depression.  Grounded theory allows a more interactive and interpreted approach, creating a more individual understanding. This theory allows a deeper focus on the research between people and the ‘individual’s perceptions, interactions and relationship in society’ (Annells, 1996).

Advisors

Dr Christine Neville

Dr Robert King

Dr Elizabeth MacKinlay

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