I suggest you go to a High Street retailer (Jessops perhaps?) and have a good look at the range.
Pick up and handle any that take your fancy - ask for advice.
If you find one that is suitable, come home and check on line prices before purchasing.
I imagine weight might be a factor too.
If you are serious about photography and the quality is important, it may be worth considering 'rugged' cameras that are meant to be used in tough outdoor situations - such as mountaineering and yachting. The use demands that the buttons are big - so can be used wearing gloves, or single handed - and non-fiddly. These are specialist cameras and can be pricey, but can stand being dropped and usually have very high specs.
Make sure whichever camera you buy can be used with a tripod - I imagine this would be essential for you in some circumstances.
:)