'Heart of the Matter' radio shows keep older people connected

Radio is an ideal medium for keeping older people informed and connected.

In Scotland, programmes in the 'Heart of the Matter' series give people an opportunity to share their experience of life with others. It is particularly concerned to explore the relevance of the Christian faith for modern society.

Organisers say, 'Our radio programme has been running now for about 13 years here in Midlothian, where it is hosted on Black Diamond 107.8 FM. On the series' website you may browse for latest programmes and anyone is welcome to download them and use them in whatever way they choose.'

'Heart of the Matter' is also broadcast on the internet stations Gospel4Grampian and Heartsong Live as well as FM stations Crystal and Dumfries and Galloway

'Each programme is an hour long and is a mixture of an interview with someone of faith, songs of various genres and a Bible thought for the week,' said Ruth Aird, research associate with Edinburgh-based charity, Faith in Older People – 'enabling a better understanding of the importance of the spiritual dimension to the well-being of older people'.

Ruth's husband David is editor of 'Heart of the Matter' and there is a team also conducting the interviews and providing information. This week's show, for example, features an interview with author and mission development worker, Steve Aisthorpe.

'We have found that for those people who cannot get out to church,' said Ruth, 'particularly in the last year, they are able to access this and use it for their own reflection. In Scotland, in remote areas some churches have used it in the church when a minister has not been available.'