“…Longitudinal studies have reported that religious attendance, in particular, decreases the risk of mortality and plays a preventive role for both physical and psychological health outcomes among older adults (Gillum, King, Obisesan, & Koenig, 2008; Idler & Kasl, 1997b; Koenig et al, 1999; Law & Sbarra, 2009; Park et al, 2008; Strawbridge, Cohen, & Shema, 2000). Recent longitudinal research utilizing rigorous statistical techniques suggests that religious attendance may offer protection against functional decline among older adults, even when controlling for health and social variables as well as initial functional status (Hybels, Blazer, George, & Koenig, 2012).…”