SPIRITUAL CARE SERVICES FOR DISABLED AND ELDERLY INDIVIDUALS

The state of dependence on others in self-care can sometimes lead to rebellion and sometimes to surrender, like a double-edged sword. The relationship with death, which is thought to be approaching in old age, may cause the beliefs that give meaning to life to be rethought. It may shift to problematic areas such as changes in the body, changes in social roles, loss of loved ones, chronic illnesses, and feelings of loneliness. For disabled people, the strain of their physical limitations causes them to experience loneliness and question the beliefs that make life meaningful. This situation, which negatively affects the quality of life and psychological well- being, creates a need for spiritual support for older people and disabled people. Many professionals have a responsibility in this regard. In this communiqué, the responsibilities of healthcare professionals for the spiritual care needs of disabled and older people are discussed. Articles in the field literature on the subject have been compiled. As a result, it was concluded that employees in health institutions should provide spiritual care, training, and seminars to disabled and older people.

Key Words: Health Sociology, Disability, Spiritual Care.