Recently, I facilitated a Poets and Writers, Inc. older adult, writing workshop in which participants wrote personal stories about
successful aging after 60. I noticed
that their stories had continual references to religious reasons for overcoming
challenges. They spoke of having prayer partners, enjoying numerous blessings, reading
the Bible, and just being alone talking to Jesus. Their praise of a Higher
Power was so strong that it became common during readings for someone to shout out
a religious affirmation such as “Give God the glory!” or “Thank you, Father!”
when fellow writers shared their experiences. One man included the partial
singing of “His Eye is on the Sparrow” as part of his presentation. A woman’s
story revealed that music talks to her with “I’m Gonna Make It After All” being
her favorite gospel song.
Research shows that several
aspects of religion such as prayer, meditation, coping strategies, service
attendance, relations with God, and congregational support have positive
influences on mental health. This national research on older adults listening to religious music suggests similar benefits with these results:
1) The frequency of
listening to religious music is associated with a decrease in death anxiety, increases
in life satisfaction and self-esteem, and a sense of control.
2) The frequency of
listening to gospel music is associated with a decrease in death anxiety and an
increase in a sense of control.
3) These findings are
similar for blacks, whites, women and men, and individuals in low and high
socioeconomic groups.
Religion is an important
socioemotional resource linked with positive mental health for older adults.
This study shows that listening to religious music may promote psychological well
being in later life. Because religious music is so available, it can be a
valuable resource for promoting mental health later in life.
Growing up, I had the good
fortune of listening on the radio to Mahalia Jackson, whom many revere as the
greatest gospel singer ever. Called the Queen of Gospel,
Mahalia became one of the most influential gospel singers in the world and
was heralded internationally as a singer and civil rights activist. You can view Mahalia
Jackson on this video singing “When the Saints Go Marching In.”
Frances Shani Parker,
Author
Becoming Dead Right: A Hospice Volunteer
in Urban Nursing Homes is available in paperback and e-book
editions in America and other countries at online and offline booksellers.
