Dementia is a challenge anytime of the year

by Tina Y. Gerber – McCurley

The average age for one experiencing dementia is not a single number because its prevalence increases significantly with age, particularly after 65. Dementia is not a typical part of aging, but age is the biggest risk factor. Dementia includes difficulty with familiar tasks, problems with language, disorientation with time and place, poor judgement, withdrawal from social activities and planning or problem solving.

Communication difficulties can be one of the most upsetting aspects of caring for someone with dementia. It is frustrating for those with the disease and for your loved ones engaged with them. Sometimes, it is hard to understand why people with dementia act the way they do. The most important thing to remember is, your loved one is not doing this on purpose.

Dementia does not sever a person’s relationship with God. In fact, God can be involved with those afflicted with dementia and their caregivers, by offering a source of strength, comfort, and hope regarding the bigger picture.

God's Word says, nothing can separate a person from God’s love. Romans 8:38 – 39. Even though we live in a fallen world, dementia is not a punishment. I have witnessed many who have dementia, who cannot manage to produce a single word, let alone a sentence, and they still sing the most amazing hymns. God’s love and presence remains constant for those with dementia and with many other illnesses, as He exists outside these disorders and ia able to directly interact with individuals as they trust in Him. I believe this is, since, true faith exists primarily in the heart/spirit, not just the intellect.

Most seniors are extraordinary individuals, who have had an amazing full life. I love spending time with seniors. If one takes the time, they have so much to share and teach. If you are Christian and caring for someone who is also while living dementia, remember, dementia does not sever a person’s relationship with God, so praying, bible reading and singing worship songs go a long way to help interaction. One day, everyone of us will get old. We need to give seniors the respect they deserve.

One main thing I have learned about dementia is, no matter how much you know about the disease it is still difficult to be proactive in providing care. However, as those who interact with people dealing with dementia, we can still grow in our practice of engaging them where they are. It is about life lessons, about grace, about loving yourself and others around you. Love is not just about sacrifice but of being present and of service to others.