Ministering to those with Alzheimer’s and Dementia can be extremely rewarding but it’s not without its challenges.

Patience is not only a virtue, it’s a necessity. Repetition of phrases and actions. Confusion. Lack of focus. Inability to understand what is being said. Not wanting to remain stationary. Not wanting to stay dressed. All of these and more, make this a ministry that is not for the faint of heart. Here are things I’ve found that can make the job easier:

Music
I’ve found that music remains with them the longest. I’ve had residents in Memory Care communities who—would not speak, could not feed themselves, and were in what seemed to be an almost vegetative state—come to life when a familiar song was played. Some, who had never spoken a word in my presence, suddenly began singing old familiar hymns. Eyes that were dimmed sparked to life. It’s times like this when you realize that the role of Memory Care Chaplains is truly making a difference.

MORE: Stories of Chaplain Life

Sacred rites
Giving communion, for instance, can be difficult. Individual cups for the wine or juice make presenting these elements a bit simpler. I also serve the 1-1/8” diameter wafers. These are relatively effortless for most to grasp. Intinction, dipping the bread in the wine, is also another method that can be very effective. As much as possible, I try to present the communion elements to the residents and allow them to take them on their own. It’s easy to get into the trap of trying to do most things for the residents. And in some cases, it may be necessary. But keep in mind that these individuals still take pride in doing things on their own.

Inspirational messages
Any sermon or Bible study will need to be shorter than usual. Ten to 15 minutes is a reasonable time. Messages should be easy to understand. Avoid messages that jump from topic to topic. A good linear flow works well. With some time and effort, a standard sermon can be pared down to something more suitable.

Moods and moments
One of the most important things is allowing them to live in their moment. As the disease progresses, they often mentally go back in time. Accept what they say. Arguing will only add to the frustration, and possibly make them irritable. Try to gently redirect their thoughts to the present. You may see mood changes. Someone sweet and kind may become aggressive and begin swearing at people around them. The primary goal is to keep them from hurting themselves or others. If you’re in a Memory Care residence, this is a good time to get staff involved.

Those suffering from Alzheimer’s and Dementia are still people. They deserve our love and respect. And when you approach this ministry with that in mind, you not only reward those you serve but you will be rewarded in ways you can’t imagine.