Spiritual well-being in the Iranian older people: A qualitative study

The world’s elderly population is the fastest growing age group especially in developing countries such as Iran. In spite of studies about health of older people, there are a few studies about exploration of spiritual well-being of older people. This study was conducted to understand and gain deeper insight into Iranian older people lived experiences of spiritual well-being.
A qualitative research design based on van Manens phenomenological methodology developed. In-depth open ended interviews used to collect the data from 16 older people that selected based on purposeful sampling of workplace, park and cultural center. Research activities of van Manens methodology used for analysis of verbatim transcripts. Trustworthiness of qualitative data is confirmed by criteria’s of credibility, conformability, dependability and transferability.
Three themes favor of God, hope, and calm, were emerged which the phenomenon of spiritual well-being could be illustrated. The favor of God was included sub themes of health as favor, authority of God and being responsible. The hope was included sub themes of being feeled, overcome on disappointments, and beautiful mind. The calm was included sub themes of spiritual well-being as interstices believe and behavioral symbol of it.
The spiritual well-being is of main domains of health in older people. The spiritual well being is in close relationship with beliefs and religions of older peoples. It provides goal and direction for health and lives of older people. These findings must consider in promotion health of older person.