title: The quest for meaning in aging.
abstract: A qualitative research design using narrative interviews was used to explore how a group of older adults experienced meaning and purpose in their lives. In-depth interviews conducted with 11 older adults ranging in age from 66 to 92 years revealed 6 dimensions through which meaning is experienced and created. Through the sharing of their narrative life stories, these individuals described how meaning in their lives contributed to a sense of self that allowed them to embrace life with a sense of purpose and enthusiasm.
authors.affiliation: Athabasca University, Centre for Nursing and Health Studies Athabasca, Alberta, Canada.
authors.forename: Sharon L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Moore
authors.forename: Barbara
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Metcalf
authors.forename: Elaine
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Schow
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000368:Aged / Q000523:psychology*; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging / Q000523:psychology*; D001294:Attitude to Health; D032882:Comprehension; D005260:Female; D006040:Goals; D015438:Health Behavior; D006803:Human Development; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009042:Motivation; D033262:Narration; D024802:Nurse's Role / Q000523:psychology; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D036301:Qualitative Research; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology; D012649:Self Concept; D029181:Spirituality; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires