Start where you are, with who you have

Within local faith communities it is probable that the most obvious issues are those associated with older people. These may include

• Disability
• Access - to both worship and social space; 
• Access to information - newsletter and general information;
• Sight - from seeing the surroundings e.g. where doors are or where there is a floor rug, to being able to read the hymns; and
• Hearing - the service leader, the music and other people attending.
• Ill health
• Continence; and
• Short-term memory loss. 
• Food issues
• Chosen diets;
• Allergies and intolerances;
• Diabetes; 
• Wearing dentures; and
• Difficulties with digesting some foods e.g. fats and hot spices.
• Poverty leading to difficulties with
• Transport;
• Being able to contribute e.g. buy flowers; and
• Going out on trips etc.
• Lack of confidence
• Some older people will struggle say with hymn books but may not have the confidence to say anything or feel that they should not complain; and
• If the weather is poor or in the evening when it is dark older people may be worried about going out.

I will write separate posts for each section.