Final answer:
Religion and spirituality are linked to various health outcomes such as enhanced subjective well-being, particularly in older adults, and better coping mechanisms for dealing with death and bereavement, due to the social support and belief systems they provide.
Step-by-step explanation:
Religion and spirituality are associated with various health outcomes, which can be particularly significant among older populations. For instance, the work of Barkan and Greenwood (2003) shows that religious attendance correlates with enhanced subjective well-being among older Americans. However, it is important to understand that religion is not the sole factor in determining one's response to health challenges, such as epidemic diseases. Factors such as lifestyle choices, personal decisions, resources, and environmental influences also play critical roles.
Studies indicate that spirituality can be adaptable to changing circumstances, contributing to an individual's well-being by offering a way to interpret and interact with the world (Lipka and Gecewicz 2017). Moreover, research suggests that people with religious or spiritual beliefs cope better with the psychological challenges of death and bereavement thanks to their belief systems and the social support gained from religious or spiritual communities (Wortman & Park, 2008).