New and Old Challenges of Ageing: Disabilities, Spirituality and Pastoral Responses.

There are both new and old challenges of disabilities in later life. First there are the developmental disabilities that people have lived with all their lives, for example, older people with Down's syndrome and cerebral palsy have complex health needs, often involving physical as well as psychological and spiritual aspects. Another aspect of ageing and disability is the onset of disease in later life, most commonly one of the dementias. One of the greatest challenges for these people and their care providers is fear and fear limits opportunities for interaction with others and access to best quality care. This chapter discusses issues of fear, misunderstandings and other barriers to well-being for older people with disabilities. A model of spiritual care that will help overcome these barriers is outlined. The way that others relate to these people makes a critical difference to their overall well-being.