Spiritual Dimensions of Ageing
Cambridge University Press, 11/24/2016
EAN 9781107092570, ISBN10: 1107092574
Hardcover, 330 pages, 23.5 x 15.7 x 1.9 cm
Language: English
Our understandings of both ageing and spirituality are changing rapidly in the twenty-first century, and grasping the significance of later life spirituality is now crucial in the context of extended longevity. Spiritual Dimensions of Ageing will inform and engage those who study or practise in all fields that relate to the lives of older people, especially in social, psychological and health-related domains, but also wherever the maintenance and development of spiritual meaning and purpose are recognised as important for human flourishing. Bringing together an international group of leading scholars across the fields of psychology, theology, history, philosophy, sociology and gerontology, the volume distils the latest advances in research on spirituality and ageing, and engages in vigorous discussion about how we can interpret this learning for the benefit of older people and those who seek to serve and support them.
1. Spirited ageing Malcolm Johnson and Joanna Walker
Part I. The Spiritual Journey of Ageing
2. Spirituality and ageing
yesterday, today and tomorrow Robert Atchley
3. Ageing and spirituality across faiths and cultures Ellizabeth MacKinlay
4. Stages of the soul
dreams and the coming of age Harry Moody
5. Aesop's Fables as spiritual touchstones Andrew Achenbaum
Part II. Cultures of the Spirit in Modernity
6. Religion, belief and spirituality in old age
how they change Vern Bengtson and Malcolm Johnson
7. Ageing, ritual and social change Peter Coleman
8. Religious ritual and practice in older age Ellen Idler
9. New cultures of ageing Paul Higgs
Part III. Searching for Meaning in Later Life
10. Religion, faith, belief and disbelief in old age
'a full-hearted evensong' Susan Eisenhandler
11. Finding meaning and sustaining purpose in later life Albert Jewell
12. Spirituality, biographical review and biographical pain at the end of life Malcolm Johnson
13. Embracing contraries
the spiritual quest as a lifelong process Ronald Manheimer
Part IV. Meeting Spiritual Needs in Older Age
14. Conversation matters Ann Morisy
15. Spiritual development in later life
a learning experience? Joanna Walker
16. Re-imagining the theology of age James Woodward
17. Pressing towards the finishing line
older people on the final lap Keith Albans.