Cosmic transcendence and framework of meaning in life: patterns among older adults in the Netherlands

Abstract

Objectives: Gerotranscendence has been conceptualized as a potential development accompanying normal aging. Gerotranscendence is defined as a shift in metaperspective from a materialistic and pragmatic world view to a more cosmic and transcendent one. In the past decade, population-based studies have tested Tornstam's Gerotranscendence Scale. Its Cosmic Transcendence subscale, in particular, emerged as consistent. The aim of the present study was to examine (a) how cosmic transcendence relates to having a framework of meaning in life and (b) whether religiousness and demographic characteristics influence possible relationships.

Methods: Participants were 928 older Dutch adults who responded to a questionnaire that included the Cosmic Transcendence scale, aspects of religiousness, and the Framework of Meaning in Life subscale of the Life Regard Index.

Results: A substantial, positive association between cosmic transcendence and framework of meaning in life was observed. This association was much more pronounced among participants who were less involved in religion, who were women, who were age 75 or older, or who were widowed.

Discussion: The current study indicates that the personal relevance of cosmic transcendence depends on cultural factors such as secularization. Furthermore, cosmic transcendence seems to unfold as an important domain in the life view of women, the older old, and the widowed.