A logotherapeutic approach to the quest for meaningful old age

Abstract

Summary This article introduces logotherapy as a meaning centered psychotherapy and its relevance to social work with the aged. According to this theory, human beings are motivated first and foremost to finding meaning in life. Ways of discovering meaning are discussed along with Frankl's “tragic triad,” consisting of guilt, suffering, and death. Each of these unavoidable factors in life offer opportunities for discovering meaning. The importance of spirituality in old age is stressed, and Cicero's Cato “the elder” is presented as a model for meaningful old age.