ABSTRACT
Objective:
to understand the life experiences that favor transcendence of the elderly being.
Method:
a qualitative phenomenological hermeneutic study, in two groups of elderly coexistence. The selection of participants was by intentional sampling: 11 elderly, achieving theoretical saturation. Data collection was carried out through a phenomenological interview with a detonating question. Ethical principles of the General Health Law in health research were fulfilled. Analysis with Heideggerian hermeneutic circle was performed.
Results:
unity of meaning on the consciousness of a higher power for transcendence is highlighted, where spirituality and religiosity are resources of the elderly for strength, feel protected, overcome difficult situations and reach fullness; both favor the understanding of their historicity by manifesting enlightenment.
Final considerations:
transcendence of the elderly being is favored with spirituality and the experiences of their daily life are imbued with a spiritual and religious relationship that give meaning to their existence.
Descriptors:
Aged; Spirituality; Religion; Nursing; Nursing Philosophy