177 Religious Participation and Health in a Changing Ireland. A Qualitative Exploration of Women Aged 65 and Over

Abstract

Abstract Background The previous decades have seen tangible changes in Ireland’s religious landscape. Religion has been investigated as an important factor in wellbeing for many populations, including those aged 65 and over. Women in this age group in particular have higher religiosity while also being more likely to face challenges such as widowhood and demanding caring roles. We explored the ways in which women relate their religious belief, practice and participation to their wellbeing in later life within the Irish context. Methods A qualitative research design was employed. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with women aged 65 and over (n=11), who self-identified as religious. Women were sampled from church congregations in the North Dublin area. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis was carried out using NVivo. Women were invited to speak on their lifecourse religious trajectories, relationships, and health, using a flexible interview instrument. Both predetermined and emerging themes were explored. Results Participants were aged 67 to 89, and were Catholic-affiliated (n=10) and Church of Ireland-affiliated (n=1). The participants described a range of religious identities, and these coloured their strategies for facing the changing role of the church in Irish society. Church abuse scandals were discussed unprompted by the majority of participants. Apprehension regarding the future of the church was common, as was concern for the religious identities and practices of younger generations within their families. Nevertheless, the majority of participants outlined ways in which religious practice, in particular, was conducive to their wellbeing. Conclusion Religious feeling, identity and practice was not homogenous in the sample. Feelings of uncertainty around the future were common, and participants employed a range of strategies to cope with these. The study is limited in how generalisation can be made, but provides insight into some of the mechanisms that can link, both positively and negatively, health and religiosity.