Jewish Visions for Aging

From the rapidly changing retirement years to the sometimes wrenching challenges of dementia and chronic illness, spiritual questions and needs are central?and today?s elders and caregivers are searching for meaning, purpose, and faith within Jewish tradition.With timely?and timeless?wisdom, this rich resource probes Jewish texts, spirituality and observances, uncovering a deep, never-before-realized approach to caring for the aging and the elderly with a refreshing and inspiring vitality. The insights spanning textual analysis as well as spiritual and pastoral perspectives provide practical guidance in spiritual care and communal programming to engage and serve elders and their families. Topics include:?Visions from Text and Tradition?Searching for Meaning?Family Caregiving?Spiritual Accompaniment in Aging?Engaging Elders in Communal LifeJewish and non-Jewish clergy, chaplains, social workers, volunteers and family members will find this comprehensive handbook an invaluable asset as they explore how to support the elders and their families through daily spiritual and communal life.

Eugene B. Borowitz is Distinguished University Professor at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. Thomas R. Cole is the McGovern Chair of Medical Humanities and director of the Center for Health, Humanities, and the Human Spirit at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. Dayle A. Friedman is the founding director of Hiddur: The Center for Aging and Judaism of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College.