Disengagement and Life Review

Abstract

Disengagement and life review are modalities which some elderly find useful in seeking fulfillment in old age. While acknowledging the potential value of both modalities, this paper exaplores the possible benefit of integrating theological perspectives into the disengagement/review process. Five illustrative areas of integration are examined including (1) the value of social withdrawal, (2) conditional versus unconditional bases for self-worth, (3) freedom from guilt, (4) coming to terms with loss and (5) transformation of hope. This paper may be useful for professionals who counsel those elderly who are perplexed about the problem of personal fulfillment.