Spiritual care for Alzheimer's patients
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BOUNTIFUL, UTAH
Alzheimer's disease can be counted among the cruelest of ailments — an incurable illness that robs its victims of priceless memories and pains the hearts of faithful loved ones.
But many who work with a group of LDS patients at an Alzheimer's care center here say the disease cannot penetrate the spirit. The lessons of the gospel, they insist, can still uplift and bring peace and joy to those who suffer.
The Relief Society and priesthood leaders assigned to the Orchard Cove (care center) Branch have enlisted equal parts ingenuity and inspiration to help provide spiritual sustenance for care center residents. For the past year, the branch Relief Society has been utilizing the recently published Nursery manual "Behold Your Little Ones" to teach and inspire Alzheimer patients whose love for the gospel remains deep-rooted.
"The Nursery manual has been an answer to prayers," said Sally Dietlein, a counselor in the branch Relief Society presidency.
About a year ago, Sister Dietlein was at an LDS leadership conference at the Philmont Scout Ranch. There she heard Sister Vicki F. Matsumori of the Primary General Presidency discussing the Church's new Nursery manual. Sister Matsumori expressed hope that the manual would be used in many ways to bless lives and educate folks of all ages.
"I was amazed at how well the manual was arranged," said Sister Dietlein.
Her thoughts turned to the Orchard Cove Branch and the special challenges that face those who teach Alzheimer's patients at the care center. She knew exactly what was needed.
"The Nursery manual teaches the very principles that are most comforting," she said. "Principles that we all need to be reminded of on a regular basis."
With the cooperation of President Lynn Kuehne and other branch priesthood leaders, the Relief Society instructors began using the colorful, activity-driven lessons from the new Nursery manual. Visuals from the manual and familiar Primary hymns are utilized to stimulate the spiritual senses and memories of their unique audience.
"The Primary music is perfect for these dear ones," said Sister Dietlein.
Patients often perform the hand actions they likely once taught to Primary children as they sing "Popcorn Popping" and "Book of Mormon Stories."
Sister Dietlein added the patients seem most responsive to those lessons that perhaps remind them of their own childhood or families.
"Their faces light up when they see pictures of children or when we talk about their own mothers and fathers and families."
The folks called to serve in the branch are certain that the Spirit found in the Relief Society and other branch meetings can reach even the most unresponsive patients. One woman who communicated little with those around her would sometimes close her eyes during sacrament services and sing hymns in a deep, refined alto. That sister has since died, but the memory of her unexpected talent inspires those serving in the Orchard Cove Branch to continue to find ways to spiritually support those they teach.
"You can get to these souls," said Sister Dietlein.
Witnessing the Orchard Cove members respond to the Relief Society lessons and other services also uplifts the relatives of the Alzheimer's patients.
"The spiritual help found here in this branch is the highlight of our lives," said Max Behunin, whose wife, Sally, is a patient at the care center. "We so enjoy meeting with these people. They are so outgoing and loving."
Sister Behunin said little while her husband spoke. But she held his hand tightly and offered a smile for all who stopped to say hello.
