The Foundation’s missional outreach is not only about fostering connection and inclusion, it’s also about helping people through life’s most profound transitions, facilitating open discussion and normalising that which will be inevitable. As part of this, we continue to explore how best to support older people in facing the realities of ageing, loss and end-of-life with dignity and care.
Chaplaincy initiatives at Selwyn Village and in those villages formerly owned by The Selwyn Foundation create safe spaces for residents to have conversations amongst their peers around aspects of death, dying, bereavement and other forms of loss. Our chaplains offer opportunities and questions to prompt discussion and to facilitate the general conversation. Village chaplains are also available for one-on-one talks with residents, and residents are also encouraged to connect with one another in-between each group session.
At a wider level, the Foundation is looking at how support services can be strengthened, so that older people and their families can talk about the last stages of life before there is a crisis. As the population ages, more people may be cared for in their own homes or in family homes at end-of-life stage (rather than in a clinical setting). We have therefore commissioned research into Tikanga Māori approaches to death and dying, with analysis of the 2023 census data also being undertaken to identify where support needs are predicted to be greatest.
The Foundation is also continuing to work on a plan to offer spiritual support to people approaching the end of life, especially to those who are not connected to a marae or faith community. Older people and whānau can be supported to talk about important questions and can plan for the future. This may include writing down their intentions or completing an Advance Care Plan. In addition, we are partnering with the Diocese of Auckland to collate resources and develop training on Living Well, Dying Well for use within parishes and in the wider community.
For anyone wishing to know more about community approaches to death and dying, you can connect with Compassionate Communities. Two networks within the Diocese of Auckland are Go with Grace and Honohono Tātou Katoa. It is also important to consider completing an Advance Care Plan, and there are excellent resources available online at tō tātou reo Advance care planning (myacp.org.nz).
