Spirituality and Quality of Life in Chronic Illness
Abstract
Chronic illness presents challenges and opportunities to the person affected. Persons with
chronic illness have identified spirituality as a resource that promotes quality of life. Few authors and
researchers have considered spirituality as a factor in quality of life. This paper presents theoretical and
research tools to support the inclusion of spirituality ana quality of life assessments as inseparable,
essential elements in the care of persons with chronic illness. The philosophical underpinnings of nursing
are caring and holism. Because of these underpinnings, nursing is well positioned to implement spiritualinterventions
in practice, propel the development of theory, andbuitda body of evidence to promote
quality of life for persons with chronic illnesses