1. Bring the outside in

If you can no longer get out into nature, think about how nature can come to you. Let in some fresh air (if it’s not too cold!); put up a bird feeder and look after some houseplants. You could also join a virtual tour online - there are hundreds to be found on the internet, visiting places from all over the world in the comfort of your own home.

2. Do something creative

Some creative activities do require a degree of dexterity which might lessen as we get older. If writing is difficult then voice recognition software can help. Some painting techniques need less precision than others. Singing may be easier than playing an instrument. None of these will take away the grief we may feel as some abilities are lost but staying creative is so good for our spiritual wellbeing that it’s worth trying out some alternatives.

3. Connecting with your beliefs

There is a common assumption that as we age, we get ‘stuck in our ways’ and maybe even more so in relation to our values, faith, or beliefs. That’s often not the case: as our lives change, so the ways we seek and make meaning change, and our priorities and our opportunities may change. Our beliefs may change a lot, bringing greater certainty or greater doubt and it can be helpful to talk them over with a trusted friend or our faith leader. If we can no longer get to our usual place of worship then there are other ways of staying involved. Representatives of our faith group may be able to come to us; worship in many different styles can be found online and some on television and radio; mark the festivals at home by lighting a candle (battery-operated candles are safest), saying prayers, and reading scripture. If we’re skilled in pastoral care then the wisdom of our years could become a great support to other people. Aging will inevitably affect our spirituality but it doesn’t have to be all negative.

Find a service Donate

Help and advice

Spirituality in later life

19 July 2024 4 minutes

Here are some tips to connect with spirituality

3 April 2024 5 minutes

Spirituality and Dementia

Read article

23 April 2024 2 minutes

Support leading worship with older people

Read article

19 July 2024 3 minutes

Tips to improve your mental wellbeing

Read article

Here are some tips to connect with spirituality

1. Bring the outside in

2. Do something creative

3. Connecting with your beliefs

Related articles

Spirituality and Dementia

Support leading worship with older people

Tips to improve your mental wellbeing