Enhancing Spiritual Care for Loved Ones: Tips for Caregivers
When caring for a loved one, maintaining their physical health is typically the top priority, so it can often be easy to forget that spiritual health can also contribute to their satisfaction and wellbeing. As we age, we are often faced with spiritual concerns regarding our mortality and the value of the life we have led. Some of our loved ones may be kept away from religious services due to illness or issues with mobility, keeping them from participating in important rituals to their faith.
If a loved one feels isolated from their faith community, or in need of spiritual guidance, we are not without help. There are several things we can do to make sure they are receiving the spiritual care they desire:
1. Include prayer and scripture in daily routines
Studies show that older adults take comfort and strength in remaining connected to their faith through regular prayer and scripture, and it can also help both caregivers and their loved ones manage anxiety, depression, and stress (Carr, Hicks-Moore, & Montgomery (2011). Participating in faith-based rituals can be beneficial for a loved one with dementia or cognitive impairment as well, as familiar words and symbols may help them connect to past memories associated with their faith.
2. Reach out to local faith leaders
If your loved one is worried about losing their connection to their faith community, try bringing members of the community to them. Many churches offer home and hospital visits to parishioners who are unable to attend services, and most can arrange for prayers to be read within the parish on behalf of you and your loved one. Some even offer recordings, podcasts or online streams of religious services. If you are not sure what kind of services your place of worship offers, get in touch with your local faith leader to find out.
3. Look into activities in your area
If you and your loved one are feeling isolated, there is no better place to start looking for ways to connect than your own community. Some churches, local libraries and Area Agencies on Aging hold special events for older adults such as choir performances, scripture groups and socials. Do some research and find out what activities you and your loved one might be able to participate in together.
4. Be open to discussions with your loved one about their spiritual concerns
Your loved one may come to you with difficult questions on life, death, and loss of hope, and while it may seem easier to be appeasing, giving a thought-out, genuine answer is more likely to contribute to your loved one’s happiness and peace of mind. However, it is important to be clear when a question is too emotionally difficult for you to answer—you need to prioritize your own emotional health, too.
If you are ever in need of more support, remember that other members of your faith community can be a valuable resource. Others may be in a similar situation to you and may be able to offer help based on their own caregiving experiences.