Religion, Aging, and Health: Exploring New Frontiers in Medical Care

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Abstract
The purpose of this review article is to selectively examine research that was designed to evaluate the relation between religious involvement and health among older people. Four facets of religion are examined in detail: church-based social support, religious coping, forgiveness, and prayer. In addition, potential negative effects of religion on health are discussed. Negative interaction in the church as well as religious doubt are evaluated in this respect. Throughout, an effort is made to show how current research on religion and health may be used to provide more comprehensive care for our aging population.