My heart is truly broken for the families who are caregivers at this time and for those living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. When you feel lonely while social distancing, please remember those who feel lonely every day. Today’s post is one to create awareness of how we can all make connections with people living in loneliness due to having Alzheimer’s.
In my days as a caregiver I learned more than I could ever write. Most importantly, I learned that the person is still here. Walking past someone in a wheel chair at a nursing home is something I can no longer do. I stop and acknowledge their presence. I love their baby dolls. I grasp hands and give hugs like they are the only one I came to see. I pretend to be a loved sister or daughter. I smile. My own mother was once that person and I would like to think someone acknowledged her presence.
When I visit the assisted living facilities I tell them my name and ask theirs. I offer hugs and handshakes. I become a family member, a neighbor or a friend. Whatever they need me to be is who I become. We laugh, sing, play games, work puzzles or simply sit together. The spirit of God living in me touches the spirit of God living in them. They are not an empty person. They are very much full of life and memories that they just cannot express anymore.
There is an organization called Giving Voice Choir. Giving Voice inspires and equips organizations to bring together people with Alzheimer’s and their care partners to sing in choruses that foster joy, well-being, purpose and community understanding. As the listen to the song for today, keep in mind at least 1/2 of this choir has Alzheimer’s disease. Someone had a vision for keeping them connected. Perhaps you will be inspired to find a creative way to do the same.
Word for Today
This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. I John 3:16
Song for Today
Prayer for Today
Dear God,
Open to eyes to those who need to be loved. Give me direction and ideas to show them your love.
Amen
Walking Them Home 