Role of Mindfulness, Religious Coping and Serenity in Institutionalized and Non-Institutionalized Elderly

Abstract

ABSTRACT The current study investigated the relationship among mindfulness, religious coping, and serenity between institutionalized and noninstitutionalized elderly. A total sample of 100 elderly participants, which included 50 institutionalized (n = 25 females, n = 25 males) and 50 noninstitutionalized (n = 25 females, n = 25 males) participants within an age range of 60–89, was selected from different institutions and homes of Lahore, Pakistan. The research instruments used include the Brief Serenity Scale, Mindful Attention Awareness Scale, and Religious Focused Coping Strategies Scale. Results indicated that institutionalized elderly were higher on levels of mindfulness than noninstitutionalized elderly. Also, institutionalized elderly who had the greatest age were found to be more serene than those institutionalized elderly who had the lowest age. Moreover, a significant positive relationship of mindfulness and religious coping was found with serenity. Furthermore, higher levels of religious focused coping, mindfulness, and age were found to be significant predictors of serenity. The study has its implications for the authorities and concerned caretakers of community centers for the elderly to take various steps in improving their services and enhancing well-being of the residing elderly.