Meaning-in-life, depression and suicide in older adults: A comparative survey study

This study compared meaning-in-life (MIL) and other related variables in two populations, those elderly who were and those who were not depressed. The model developed for this study assumed in older adults that spirituality, hope, health and social support variables are essential concepts within which MIL occurs. Furthermore, the absence of a clear MIL may contribute to the presence of depression, and depression is usually present in conjunction with thoughts of suicide. This study used a comparative survey design to examine relationships between spirituality, hope, health, social support, MIL, depression and suicide. The primary data collection method was quantitative, however, qualitative methods were used to enhance the quantitative data.