Relationship between Spirituality, Religiosity, and Alcohol Consumption among Older Adults

Abstract

Introduction: Alcohol consumption among older adults is increasing, which has an impact on their physical, emotional, cognitive and social health. Therefore, it is necessary to identify possible protective factors, such as spirituality and religiosity, to contribute relevant knowledge to the nursing care of geriatric patients. Objective: To determine the relationship between spirituality, religiosity, and alcohol consumption among older adults. Materials and Methods: This descriptive-correlational study involved a sample of 286 adults aged over 60 from Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico. Stratified random probability sampling was employed. The following instruments were used: the Brief and Portable Mental Status Questionnaire; the Personal Data and Alcohol Consumption Prevalence Form; the Spiritual Perspective Scale; the Duke University Religion Index; and the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test Geriatric Version. Data were collected in two medical clinics and three development and wellness centers. Results: A negative but significant correlation was found between spirituality (rs = -0.368, p < 0.01) and religiosity (rs = -0.473, p < 0.01) and alcohol consumption. Conclusions: Spirituality and religiosity are associated with lower alcohol consumption among older adults. These findings enable the development of cultural interventions aimed at promoting the health of older adults, thereby improving their quality of life and overall well-being.