Press reviews for: Spirituality and Ageing
Dementia Plus Website
The great strength of this collection is that the words come from active people who draw upon their involvement in particular settings: 'Theology is being hammered out on the anvil of experience'…Albert Jewell did us great service in bringing these texts to us.
Contact - Helen Leathard
This timely and attractive book contains seventeen chapters, by different authors, as well as a useful introduction by the editor. Its practical importance lies in its provision of experience-based insights and practical guidance for those caring for the elderly or those approaching old age themselves.
Age and Ageing
This book is an attractive collection of essays by religious and ethical thinkers reflecting on the common human experience of growing older. It concentrates on the needs which we tend to ignore in the modern industrialized National Health Service. Albert Jewell's thoughtful introduction re-affirms life, stating that people of all ages need love (the receiving and giving of affection), peace (finding a measure of stability and tranquility) and worship (a sense of awe, an attribution of value or worth to whom ever or what ever is deemed to merit it). This is a predominantly christian-based book which does include a chapter on British Hindus Sikhs and Muslims. The book tackles a very difficult area and certainly makes a case for the importance of religious reflection and affirmation of life. It would be a particularly useful resource for those concerned with the pastoral care of elderly people.
Revd. Dr Richard B. Gilbert, Executive Director, The World Pastoral Care Center
This book serves many significant purposes, not the least of which is keeping before us the presence of the elderly, the rights and needs of the elderly, and the spiritual wealth borne by many of them if we are willing to respect the treasure and accompany it through their journey and ours. We are reminded that "Trying to think deeply about the meaning and purpose of life is to engage in a religious quest" (p.25) This expression neither begins nor ends at age 65. The book is a wealth of resources in its collective essays and will speak much to us who professionally (and personally) dwell with older adults.