I have found that faith can be a profound aspect of an individual’s life but something that can be set aside as we age because transportation and mobility obstacles can prohibit attendance to weekly services. However, a desire to strengthen one’s faith can also be most profound at this stage of life, when reminded of our mortality, pulling us towards our foundation of faith. Studies of participation in spirituality and religion have also shown to slow cognitive decline, instill a sense of hope and purpose, and foster needed socialization for the aging individual. Providing a ride to Sunday service, helping an individual live stream their church service on their home TV, or otherwise helping a loved one maintain their access to worship can be a meaningful means of connection and support. Many churches will send a volunteer to visit a homebound senior if they are unable to attend service and need a spiritual connection, and hospital and Hospice Chaplains can be a comfort to those who are ailing or in need of spiritual guidance as they face the end of life. If your loved one has had a strong foundation in faith earlier in their lives, allowing them opportunities to rekindle or maintain their faith in the latter years of life can be a true gift.
I think that part of the benefit is from not only the faith factor or the act of worship but also the socialization factor. I helped clients whom I know to be social beings go from isolation to a group environment and watched them blossom.
It is worth thinking about.
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