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Abstract Serenity and the Quality of Life in The Older Adult Mardi Beaumont 1999 Aging is inevitable. It is in this process of aging that the older adults are often forced to cope with increasing numbers of adjustments. Over many of these, they have no control. Successful aging would seem to require the older adult to have the ability to adapt or cope with these changes. Attainment of serenity may influence quality of life by helping the older adult find meaning and comfort when faced with harsh life experiences. It may also be useful in achieving a sense of peace in the adjustments necessary to promote quality of life and successful aging. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship of serenity to quality of life in the older adult. This study also examined the relationship of demographic variables to serenity and to quality of life. Serenity and Quality of Life Profile-Senior Version surveys were administered and collected from 80 community-dwelling older adults at two senior citizen centers. Analysis of these surveys, using Pearson’s product-moment correlation showed a statistical correlation between serenity and quality of life (p< .05). Positive relationships were also identified between quality of life and male gender, health status and yearly income. No significant correlations were found between the demographic variables and serenity. Nursing has much to gain form research into serenity as a spiritual outcome and it’s impact on the quality of life as an intervention for helping older adults cope. Older adults are the epitome of survival. They have endured environmental, emotional, social and physical stressors. Our challenge is to support this phase of their life with a new understanding of holistic aging and the positive outcomes it can offer.
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