CHAPLAIN & ADVOCATE TO THE ELDERLY: The Revd Dr Janet Hopewell
“They will flourish… and bear fruit in old age.” (Psalm 92:13-14)
My brief as Southern Synod Chaplain and Advocate for the Elderly is to promote the importance of spiritual care in later life.
The responsibilities of the post are split between Bognor Regis, West Sussex, with a higher than average demographic of retirees, and the mostly ageing congregations scattered in local churches throughout the Synod.
At Pagham URC we run a flourishing drop-in dementia-friendly café, which draws in the local community. Some guests come from the care homes in Bognor where I take services.
We are known as providing a welcoming and safe space for people with dementia.
Other sources of information
Age UK has helpful guides on many practical ways to support older people. Including tips on establishing a dementia cafe,
Music and the Lord’s Prayer can be routes into communication for those with dementia – and for many having grown up in the church brings back recollections that have been locked away. Dementia Partnerships has several guides and articles on working with people with dementia
The Alzheimer’s Society has a dementia connect support line for anyone who need advice or help or just a listening ear – telephone 0333 150 3456
The London City Mission has produced a helpful 8-page guide to reaching out to older people- not just people with dementia
The organisation Faith in Later Life is supported by the Evangelical Alliance and provides a wide range of resources for engaging and empowering older people in their Christian faith
Questions?
Contact Janet for more information on supporting older congregations and people living with dementia
Page last updated 22/2/22