Over 100 years ago, Alois Alzheimer published research on dementia caused by amyloid plaques. Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia have been observed since ancient times by physicians, philosophers, and writers. However, Alzheimer was the first to find the brain pathology that came to be known as Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's research advanced our understanding and caring for persons with dementia.
Caregivers can use spiritual activities to stay connected to loved ones living with dementia. Although persons living with dementia lose mental abilities, they retain their spiritual sensitivity. Spirituality transcends the person and promotes a connection to one’s self, others, and the environment. Following is a list of spiritual activities and resources for implementing them into your journey with loved ones living with dementia.
Compassion - use words that treat loved ones with respect and make them feel included.
Conversation - allow people with dementia to have moments of silence and use incomplete sentences.
Experiential - read magazines, recite poetry, show photographs, stream music, and use arts and crafts.
Environmental - take loved ones outdoors to experience the sights, smells, and sounds of nature.
Presence - sit in front, make eye contact, and empathize by smiling.
Storytelling - entertain with your stories and experiences from recent times and the past.
Touching - try touching shoulders, holding hands, massaging backs, and dancing.
Walk - walk with your loved one or push their wheelchair around a garden, park, or pond.
Worship - read scriptures, recite prayers, sing hymns, and share your religious experiences.
Spiritual outreach enables caregivers to stay connected to loved ones. Spiritual activities speak to the emotions and senses of dementia patients without pressure to remember. Use the activities mentioned above and the following resources to harness the power of spirituality on your journey with those living with dementia.
Christopher Durfrene, Spiritual Care and Dementia, Encompass Health, Oct. 5, 2019.
Debbie Dyjak, Dementia - Spirituality, Arizona Center on Aging, Feb. 15, 2022.
James Ellor, Reaching Out to the Spiritual Nature of Persons with Dementia, NOCA/ASA, Mar. 27, 2008.
Janice Hicks, Spiritual Care of the Person with Dementia, Penn Medicine, Jan. 3, 2018.
Alzheimer's Society UK, The Dementia Guide - Living Well After Your Diagnosis, Nov. 2020.
