"What makes the book''s approach so captivating is that each...chapter is written by a different researcher in the study of religion and health. These researchers are responsible for significant portions of the existing literature and methodologies found in this field today....The versatility of the book warrants special mention. It is effective as a survey of work that has already been done on this topic. At the same time, it serves as a wellspring of ideas for new research....This work makes a valuable contribution to the present understanding of research on religion and health. It also serves as a road map to help chart directions for future endeavors in the field."--Sociology of Religion

This volume focuses on the ways in which religious institutions, religious practices, and religious organizations impact the health and well-being of older persons.

Topics examined include:

• the conceptualization and measurement of religion in late life
• the relationship between religious coping and possible stress reduction
• the role of forgiveness as an alternate mediator
• how social class, gender, and race can influence the specific effect of religion and religious institutions in a diverse aging society

Contributors include L. Chatters, K. Ferraro, L. K. George, E. Idler, S. McFadden, and K. Meador.