title: Assessing the Psychoeducational Approach to Transcendence and Health Program: An Intervention to Foster Self-Transcendence and Well-Being in Community-Dwelling Older Adults.
abstract: The late-life developmental process of self-transcendence shapes elders' perspectives on self, others, the nature of this world, and of a dimension beyond the here and now. This qualitative pilot study evaluated the Psychoeducational Approach to Transcendence and Health (PATH) Program, a psychoeducational intervention to promote self-transcendence and well-being in community-dwelling women at a senior center. The intervention involved eight weekly group sessions using group processes, mindfulness practices, creative experiences, and independent at-home practice. The findings supported the underlying theory-based structure and content of the intervention and indicated the intervention may empower elders to attend to self-care, develop acceptance, and learn new skills associated with health and well-being, thus merits further study. Based on insights gained from facilitators' and participants' experiences and perceptions, the intervention will be revised and strengthened.
authors.affiliation: University of Louisville, KY, USA vemcca01@louisville.edu.
authors.forename: Valerie Lander
authors.initials: VL
authors.lastname: McCarthy
authors.affiliation: Eastern Washington University, Cheney, WA, USA.
authors.forename: Sharon
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Bowland
authors.affiliation: University of Louisville, KY, USA.
authors.forename: Lynne A
authors.initials: LA
authors.lastname: Hall
authors.affiliation: University of Louisville, KY, USA.
authors.forename: Jennifer
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Connelly
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012648:Self Care / Q000523:psychology*; D012649:Self Concept
keywords: creativity; lifespan development; mindfulness; self-transcendence; spirituality; well-being