Insights from Chad Federwitz, friend and senior care director whose research focuses on spirituality and dementia.
Pentecost Sunday: a service for those with Alzheimer’s
Happy Pentecost Sunday! I really enjoyed the eldercare church services this week because we talked about the day that God sent his Spirit to the very first Christ-believers. I created a new service for Pentecost Sunday, which is now uploaded on the site. Beyond words It’s interesting to note how the writer of Acts 2 … Continue reading Pentecost Sunday: a service for those with Alzheimer’s
Create a hymn playlist for an elder
Without a doubt, music reaches something inside of elders that nothing else does, and it's miraculous and joyful to witness. I've seen time and again how seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia -- even people who might otherwise be nonverbal -- start singing the words to classic hymns as soon as the music starts playing. (To get a taste … Continue reading Create a hymn playlist for an elder
Abide: new worship service for elders with Alzheimer’s
I promised I'd let you know whenever I post a new worship service, so here's the latest one. This week I chose the theme of Abiding. I'm not sure why I decided on this theme. Maybe it's because the old hymn "Abide With Me" has been running through my head: Abide with me, fast falls the … Continue reading Abide: new worship service for elders with Alzheimer’s
Why the crown of thorns gets me every time
Of all the graphic images of the pain and indignities that Jesus suffered on his way to and upon the cross, for some reason it’s the crown of thorns that gets me every time. (Yes, there is a tie-in to spiritual care for elders, so stay with me.) Why does the crown of thorns bother … Continue reading Why the crown of thorns gets me every time
Palm Sunday and Good Friday worship services for elders with dementia
If you're a chaplain or activities director at a senior community -- or if you have a loved one who lives there -- you might want to check out two new Spiritual ElderCare worship services for Palm Sunday and Good Friday (yes, just under the wire!), suitable for people with Alzheimer's and dementia. This is the … Continue reading Palm Sunday and Good Friday worship services for elders with dementia
How to help a person with Alzheimer’s feel useful
It bears repeating: People with dementia aren’t “done.” They have led productive, valuable lives, and often they still love to help in whatever way they can—it's part of the human desire to feel needed and useful. "Letting" them help isn't about busywork, and your elder's usefulness isn't a fiction; tasks actually do need to be done, and … Continue reading How to help a person with Alzheimer’s feel useful
What to do if a person with dementia becomes agitated
Sometimes people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias suddenly lash out in anger or break down hysterically. What should you do? Most of us aren’t that good at dealing with upset emotions and behaviors. And yes, they are upsetting. But I’ve found a few things that can help both you and your loved one. (If you … Continue reading What to do if a person with dementia becomes agitated
The value of humor with Alzheimer’s
You’ll notice that in many of the worship services offered on this site, I include some kind of humorous story or jokes. In addition, during bible studies I often stop and point out amusing notes that pertain to the passage, like the stinky smell of sheep (Luke 15) or the image of the persistent widow […]
Widows, orphans, and prisoners: God’s heart for elders with dementia
“Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction …” (James 1:27) “Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them …” (Hebrews 13:3) “‘When did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer, ‘Truly, I say to you, … Continue reading Widows, orphans, and prisoners: God’s heart for elders with dementia
