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About Us > Advice & Advances > Winter 2002-2003 - Volume 20





Winter 2002-2003 - Volume 20
Fall 2002 - Volume 19
Summer 2002 - Volume 18
Spring 2002 - Volume 17
Summer 2001 - Volume 16






Many of us have, at some time in our lives, found great satisfaction in being part of a religious community. The quality of life for people with dementia can be greatly enhanced be it from communicating with a higher power, enjoying the music, or just being part of a congregation.

The three articles included in this section discuss the value of spiritual expression for people with Alzheimer's disease.




Dementia, Religion and Spirituality
By: Wendy L. Bonifaz, Editor in Chief
I think most of us do not realize that people suffering from even severe dementia still have the ability to experience that "something more" that humans always seem to seek in life, even if those of us who are "currently able-bodied and -minded" are sure they are no longer accessible to communication....


Life-long Religious Support for Persons with Alzheimer's
By: Rabbi Samuel R. Seicol
The need for spiritual well-being (i.e., finding meaning in one's past, purpose for the future, and value in the present) is a universal constant for all people at every stage of life. A formal worship service, built around community support and affirmation through music and prayer, can be a powerful force for spiritual enhancement and well-being....


Alzheimer's Disease and Spiritual Comfort: Guides for Clergy and Congregations
By: The Alzheimer's Association
People who have AD, particularly those brought up in religious households, derive pleasure from worship services and pastoral visits. They can often participate in age-old rituals, and enjoy favorite hymns, sacraments and scripture passages. Some individuals with the disease may stop attending regular services to avoid social situations they fear or no longer understand, while others find peace and comfort in a place of worship....




Maintaining satisfying and adequate nutrition is challenging for healthy individuals. The following articles discuss how to keep a person with dementia well nourished.



Dysphagia, Dementia and Nutrition
Contributed by The John Douglas French Center for Alzheimer's Disease, Los Alamitos, CA.

When you go to the movies and buy a box of popcorn, you don't stop watching the show to eat it. Putting food in your mouth, chewing and swallowing are things most people do without thinking approximately 600 times each day throughout their lives....



Nutrition Care Alerts: Warning Signs and Action Steps for Caregivers in Home Care
Reprinted with Permission by the Nutrition Screening Initiative

Proper nutrition care is vital to the health and well being of home care recipients. This guide, developed by nutrition and long term care experts, can help caregivers learn more about the warning signs of poor nutrition and the practical steps to maintain and improve nutritional health. It is designed to be used every day....



Shopping List: For Your Next Trip to the Grocery Store
Contributed by The John Douglas French Center for Alzheimer's Disease.

Here are some tasty ideas to inspire caregivers. A little imagination on your next trip to the supermarket may help in creating more successful dining experiences....



Nutritional Care: Food for Thought
Contributed by The John Douglas French Center for Alzheimer's Disease.

Getting dinner on the table is easy -- getting the proper nourishment into a dementia patient can be quite tricky. That's what many family caregivers realize when the progression of Alzheimer's disease begins to affect eating ability and habits....






What Caregivers Really Want: A Round-the-Year Wish List
Reprinted with Permission by The Alzheimer's Association

A friend is an important source of support for the Alzheimer family. Even if they live far away, there's still plenty you can do. Here are ten easy ways to help...



Tips for Visiting a Loved One
Contributors: Jennifer A. Brush, Kathryn M. Kilpatrick, Anita H. Siegal, Chari Weber, Stacey A. Hajdukovic, Margaret P. Calkins

Your caring doesn't end when a person goes into a nuwrsing home, it only changes. Learning a new way of caring can be quite difficult. Often, people do not know what to expect or do, and the first visit can be the most intimidating. Here are a few tips that might help...