Different spirituality and social support between White and African American older adults

Second place winner of poster presentations in the Social Science section at the 11th Annual Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity Forum (URCAF) held at the Rhatigan Student Center , Wichita State University, April 5, 2011Purpose: Spirituality and social support can be important factors in the elderly population. This study examines 121 older adult Caucasian and African American participants who are 65 years old or over. The objective of this study is to explore the different spirituality and social support between Caucasian and African American older adults. Methods: Participants were selected using the convenience sampling method. Participants were from churches, agencies, SRS offices, and assisted living facilities. Researchers conducted face to face interviews with the participants that lasted approximately one hour. The study utilized a cross-sectional design method and quantitative approach. The interviews were conducted between February 22nd through February 28th 2011. The survey included standardized instruments measuring social support and spirituality. Results: Descriptive statistics, Chi-square, and t-test will be used to measure results. This study expects to discover different spirituality and social support between Caucasian and African American older adults. Implications: One goal of this study is to understand how Caucasian and African American older adults have different spirituality and social support. A second goal is to recognize the needs of the aging population to be able to meet their spiritual and social support needs.Faculty Sponsor: Kyoung Lee; Office of Research Administration, Fairmount College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, College of Education, College of Engineering, College of Fine Arts, University Libraries, Emory Lindquist Honors Progra