The long term care community is far more complex than those on the outside realize. There are group homes for those with various mental disabilities, independent living neighborhoods surrounding inhouse care buildings as well as short term rehab facilities. But when the average person mentions nursing homes, their mind inevitably turns to memory care. The residents in these places are the most vulnerable, needy and yet forgotten of all. Today’s video gives a hope filled glimpse into the lives and faith of my most special friends. I encourage you to take a second look at what part you may play. Jesus Loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so. Will you join Jesus in loving someone in memory care this week?
Alzheimers
Singing With Seniors – reprise
We had a wonderful time Thursday morning singing. This is my special memory care group ( though some do remember my name). We talk about grandchildren, talk about old times, laugh and sing a lot. It is amazing how close we are and how much they are just like everyone else in many ways. No one sings with more joy even in church!
If you have opportunities to serve in memory care in your community don’t miss out on the blessings both for them and for you. It is a happy day as we now pack our bags to leave for a visit with our grandchildren this Saturday. But I will also be sad to miss my memory care choir till next month. Have a blessed day all!
Unseen Caregiving
What to Do When a Disability is Unseen
So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight. Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:6-8 ESV
Do not be surprised or discouraged that as a caregiver a lot of what you do is unseen or misunderstood. In my years as a chaplain I have gotten to know people in many different kinds of long term care settings. I have seen, prayed for and been involved with people struggling with all different types of disability. While most people are familiar with disabilities linked to wheel chairs or breathing assistance; they may not think of those unseen disabilities involved with mental or emotional illness. If you are in such a place and are dealing with a loved one who battles with depression, memory loss, dementia or other unseen issues that leave you feeling frustrated and misunderstood you are not alone. The most important thing to remember is that God sees. Our battle in caring for our loved one may be unseen but as today’s scripture reminds us; we walk by faith in an unseen God who is able to help us because He sees our heart! He will give us strength for the journey and has promised to never leave us even when no one sees what we are up against. He is still more than enough! I loved and was encouraged by this short video from Ken and Joni on how God has helped them to see how caregiving has both challenged and strengthened their trust in the Lord. Through it all God has faithful to them and He will also see you through even at those times no one else understands. He who knows every detail so much so that he has even counted every hair on our heads will bring us through! Have a blessed Saturday everybody!
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