title: Dreams for the second half of life.
abstract: Dreams in midlife and old age can reveal a process of spiritual growth described by Tornstam as gerotranscencence. This same process of inner growth has also been described in theoretical terms as self-actualization (Maslow), ego-integrity (Erikson), and individuation (Jung). The process is illustrated through dream symbols of transpersonal development, displaying the duality of self-fulfillment and self- transcendence. In lifespan development terms this process can be studied in detail in the autobiography of Helen Luke. The interpretation of dreams has importance for what has recently come to be known as Conscious Aging.
authors.affiliation: Academic Affairs for AARP, Washington, DC, USA.
authors.forename: Harry R
authors.initials: HR
authors.lastname: Moody
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D004325:Dreams / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012067:Religion; D029181:Spirituality; D013561:Symbolism