WHAT MATTERS IN AGING-BEING?
Aging, Meaning of Life and Spirituality
Keywords:
aging, meaning of life, spirituality, gerontology, old ageAbstract
Human aging has been widely discussed in the social sciences, psychology, and gerontology, especially in a contemporary society marked by productivism and the fragility of social bonds. Aging is not limited to a biological process but involves emotional, social, existential, and spiritual dimensions that redefine what truly matters throughout life. Objective: To analyze the main elements that become significant in the aging process, highlighting relational, existential, and spiritual aspects that contribute to a meaningful and dignified old age. Methodology: This is a qualitative study with a reflective and phenomenological approach, based on a bibliographic review in the fields of gerontology, philosophy of aging, social psychology, and sociology of old age. Results: This article explored seven important
dimensions of aging, among others: true friendship, simplicity, memory and legacy, purpose, genuine love, inner peace, and spirituality, highlighting key priorities throughout life. Conclusion: Aging represents a process of existential maturation that leads to the appreciation
of social bonds, meaning of life, and spirituality, contributing to more humanized social and
academic practices that value the dignity of older adults.