Biopsychosocial benefits of spirituality in adults aging with HIV: implications for nursing practice and research.

More than 100,000 adults above the age of 50 have been diagnosed with HIV in the United States. It is important to understand how to promote successful aging in this growing population. With the positive effects of spirituality on biopsychosocial functioning in aging, HIV, and chronic diseases, accessing the strengths associated with spirituality may facilitate successful aging in adults surviving to older ages. The inherent nature of the nurse-patient relationship means nurses are in a key position to actively listen, assess spiritual needs, and make clinical referrals. In providing holistic care to patients, nurse scientists are encouraged to study and address the spiritual needs in this growing population.