How can we promote the enduring well-being of those who are moving into the 'fourth' age of life? Ageing, Spirituality and Well-being explores how well-being is not about physical health alone; having purpose in life and continual spiritual growth are vital elements for older individuals. This book provides guidance on how the particular spiritual needs of this age group can be defined and addressed, and how meaningful care and support can be given.The contributors use their expertise in the fields of medicine, theology and the social sciences to explore ways of overcoming obstacles and finding a balance when dealing with the inner, and inextricably linked outer, lives of elders, including those with dementia or who have had strokes. A collection of diverse views, practical observations and sound advice, this is a thought-provoking resource for all those concerned with the physical, mental and pastoral well-being of older people.
Preface, Albert Jewell, former Pastoral Director, MHA Care Group, Derby. 1. Nourishing the Inner Being: A Spirituality Model, Albert Jewell. 2. The Stars Only Shine in the Night: The Challenge of Creative Ageing, Malcolm Goldsmith, former Research Fellow, University of Stirling. 3. Successful Ageing and the Spiritual Journey, Harriet Mowat, Aberdeen University. 4. The Caged Bird: Thoughts on the Challenge of Living with Stroke, Penelope Wilcock, Methodist Minister. 5. The Spiritual Dimension of Ageing, Elizabeth MacKinlay, University of Canberra. 6. Ageing and the Trinity: Holey, Wholly, Holy? Rosalie Hudson, University of Melbourne. 7. Older People and Institutionalised Religion: Spiritual Questioning in Later Life, Peter G. Coleman, University of Southampton. 8. The Search for Meaning of Life in Older Age, Leo Missinne, University of Nebraska. 9. The Dance of Life: Spirituality, Ageing and Human Flourishing, Ursula King, Professor Emerita, University of Bristol. 10. Magic Mirrors: What People with Dementia Show Us about Ourselves, John Killick, University of Stirling. 11. Hearing the Story: Spiritual Challenges for the Ageing in an Acute Mental Health Unit, Deborah Dunn, Chaplain, Western Australia. 12. Ageing, Spirituality and Well-Being: Eastern Perspectives and Implications for the West, Krishna Mohan, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda. 13. Ageist Theology: Some Pickwickian Prolegomena, Kevin Barnard, Vicar of Bolsterstone, Diocese of Sheffield. 14. Geriatric Burden or Elderly Blessing? David Jenkins, former Bishop of Durham. References. Index.
I was drawn to this book in a search for theology of ageing, but found much more. Though it tackles uncomfortable issues the confront us all, the book is a delight, full of hope and reassurance... So we are helped to answer not what we can do about the ageing problem, but what is the meaning of ageing - something for us all.
