A Place for Mom's Family

I have a degree in Community Ministry from Geneva College. While there, I did extensive research about effectively ministering to the elderly. I discovered that social isolation leads to depression, but that isolation can be combated with active participation in religious activities during holiday celebrations. I found that anticipation and participation in yearly religious ceremonies heighten's the individual's sense of membership in the group.

 According to research by E.L Idler and S.V. Kasl,   "Ritual observances, too, could be more important for the elder; the repetitions of these ceremonies are sedimented in memory, building up a sense of continuity over the lifetime in weekly and yearly cycles. Religious group membership also protected Christians and Jews against mortality in the month before their respective holidays during a six-year period"

 Idler, E.L., & Kasl, S.V. (1992) Religion, disability, depression and the timing of death. American Journal of Sociology, 97, (4), 1052-79.

For this reason, I encourage family members to bring their loved one to religious services and celebrations throughout the year!

Karen.... I think that is a wonderful idea.  There is a much deeper message here than what one will read initially!

When we are dealing with the elderly, we have to remember that they have fond memories of a simpler time. Christmas was centered around family and often times spirituality. Let's face it as we age, we have more and more aches and pains. Not to mention, if there are major health factors that come into play. I have personally seen my Grandmother's eyes light up when she talks about going home (to a better place). This may sound morbid to some, but to believers... it is a beautiful vision. The Holidays are a time when we can refelect on the fact that there is SO much more than just our life on earth. I think the Holidays are a time of gratitude, especially to our Creator. Believing in a higher power gives hope and faith that can help lift anyones spirits!

Interesting, Thanks, Karen.

Our local Alzheimer's association (Orange County, CA) offers religous ceremonies every month at a variety of churches, synagogs and temples. They have found that the elderly especially with dementia benefit from  the act of going back into a church. It  brings back those memories and those who have not talked in years sing psalms!  It is a wonderful program and we have advisors who help volunteer to coordinate it.

 Here is the link to learn more about the Interfaith Outreach services:

http://www.alz.org/oc/in_my_community_10850.asp

Great point!  I find that many senior communites offer religious services and some places will even bring their residents to church.