Free online resource for exploring the process of ageing

Dr Ian Donald has devised a six session course you may be interested in for yourself or others you minister among? Information is available at www.ageing-gracefully.co.uk 

You may recall that some time ago we featured this review by the Revd Brian Dunlop, of the Cheltenham Anna Chaplaincy team, of Dr Donald's book WITH A LIGHT TOUCH-A guide to healthcare in frailty.

Brian Dunlop

Brian described how, 'It is the book I needed when some years ago my parents became frail. Eventually I obtain much of the knowledge and many of the insights set out in Dr Ian Donald’s book but they were hard won and often, frustratingly, followed the event.

Ian Donald is a retired specialist in the care of older people and has a deep in interest in care in the community. His book with a discussion on the nature of frailty and then discuss the many aspects of the medical care that can arise. He provides a really helpful discussion on reviewing medicines, as older people can accumulate a range of prescription, which are taken cumulatively. 

I well remember my mother being sent home from hospital with two carrier bags of medicines and only a computer print-out to indicate when but not why they should be taken. Reducing the number of pills can reduce the range of side effects and prevent different medicines conflicting.

Similarly, there is almost always another test that can be done but an assessment needs to be made of the value that the results may bring and be balanced against the effect of the test or consequent treatment on the patient. Even a day trip to hospital can lead to a serious deterioration late in a person’s life. This leads to a recognition that hospital stays can be damaging, particularly for those living with dementia but equally ill-considered discharge from hospital can lead to complications.

The message throughout is that doctors should be taking a holistic approach that is appropriate to each person’s situation, desires and life expectancy.

There are a number of illustrative cases taken from Ian’s long career in this field, which not only help to explain the points being made but also show how partner’s and family form part of process of determining the best course of action, although a patient with capacity always has the final say on whether or not to accept treatment.

The final chapters look at planning ahead and letting go. Have you made a will, signed a Lasting Power of attorney or indicated you wishes on resuscitation? Knowing that neither of my parents wanted to be resuscitated was hugely helpful when the time came.

All of this wisdom is held in a strong scaffold of Ian Donald’s Christian faith. He looks at the issues, which may trouble Christians, squarely in the eye and throughout offers biblical quotes that may help patients and family members explore their worries and concerns. To assist that process each chapter ends with some questions for reflection. The book is extremely accessible and is, indeed, written with a light touch!'

WITH A LIGHT TOUCH is published by Onwards and Upwards publishers at £11.99

ISBN 978-1-78815-929-6 and Ian Donald can be contacted at ecare@blueyonder.co.uk

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