Guide to Ministering to Alzheimer's Patients and Their Families

<p>Learn how to develop an effective Alzheimer’s ministry.</p><p>The <em>Guide to Ministering to Alzheimer's Patients and Their Families</em> examines the importance of spirituality in dealing with the everyday challenges of this mysterious disease. Not a “how-to” manual with step-by-step instructions or tried and true formulas this unique book instead examines the essential elements of ministering to dementia patients based on the first-hand accounts of family members living through pain and uncertainty.</p><p>The book explores the stages of Alzheimer's grief and guilt available resources and implications of spiritual care for patients and families. It is equally useful as a textbook for graduate and undergraduate work a reference for study groups and seminars and a primer for those with limited knowledge of the illness.</p><p>Ministers sometimes neglect Alzheimer’s patients and their families because they feel they don’t know what to say or do even though they want to be obedient and faithful servants in this specialized ministry.<em> </em>The <em>Guide to Ministering to Alzheimer’s Patients and Their Families</em> communicates the thoughts feelings and needs of those affected by the disease to help ministers feel more comfortable confident and competent as they develop a theological understanding of God Alzheimer’s patients and their role in ministry. The book also provides models for ministry; role-play scenarios; a sample text for a care facility worship service a care facility memorial service and a funeral service for a Christian and a non-Christian as well as a sample clergy seminar program on Alzheimer’s ministry.</p><p>The <em>Guide to Ministering to Alzheimer’s Patients and Their Families</em> examines:</p><ul> <li>common characteristics of early mild moderate and severe Alzheimer’s</li> <li>general information about Alzheimer’s</li> <li>ethical decision-making</li> <li>support group ministry</li> <li>respite care</li> <li>religious rites</li> <li>faith issues</li> <li>heredity</li> <li>hospitalization of Alzheimer’s patients</li> <li>long-distance caregiving</li> <li>working with other clergy</li> </ul><p>The <em>Guide to Ministering to Alzheimer’s Patients and Their Families</em> also includes a special appendix of selections from the Scriptures. This book is a unique resource for all Christians who desire to minister to those affected by Alzheimer’s—especially pastors priests chaplains pastoral counselors church leaders healthcare professionals and seminary students.</p>