The contributions of religious practice, existential certainty, and raising grandchildren to well-being in older adults. Issue 3 (3rd July 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wilmoth, Joe D.; Yancura, Loriena; Barnett, Melissa A.; Oliver, Brittney
• Is Part Of: Journal of religion, spirituality & aging. Volume 30:Issue 3(2018)
• Page Start: 212
• Page End: 233
• Publication Date: 2018-07-03
• Subjects: Grandparents -- Grandparents raising grandchildren -- Well-being -- Religion and spirituality -- Existential certainty; Church work with older people -- Periodicals; Older people -- Religious life -- Periodicals; Older people -- Psychology -- Periodicals; Older people -- Social conditions -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Periodicals; 261.8
• DOI: 10.1080/15528030.2018.1462289
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1552-8030

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Religious beliefs and practices are believed to foster well-being across the life course. This study examines whether religious practice, spiritual development, and existential certainty are positively linked to well-being in grandparents ( N = 2, 503) and whether these factors buffer grandparents from risks associated with raising grandchildren and adjusting to changing roles. Data were collected from individuals attending Protestant churches. Spiritual development and existential certainty were positively associated with well-being. We found no evidence for buffering effects of religious practice on grandparent well-being. Grandparents raising grandchildren reported more challenges in adjusting to changes in roles compared to their peers.