Abstract

This study examined the relationships of income and gender with religious engagement among older adults. Data from the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP) survey (Waite et al. 2007, 31-149), which sampled persons 57-85 years of age (n=3005), was used. It was hypothesized that older adults’ income and gender differentially influence religious engagement. Multiple regression analysis results revealed that older adults with lower income engaged less frequently in religious activities compared to older adults with higher income. In addition, female older adults had a higher frequency of religious engagement than male older adults. Based on regression analysis, older adults’ income and gender had interaction effects on their religious engagement. Implications of this research are discussed.