Abstract

This innovative and sensitive guide to providing spiritual care to people with dementia features original methods drawn from the author's experiences of working with over 1,000 individuals with dementia. It provides creative new ways for chaplains to connect with patients whose spiritual needs are all too often neglected.

Ranging from the author's personal experience, factual information about different kinds of dementia and the challenges of pastoral care, it provides instructions for staging a multi-sensory spiritual care intervention with patients. Included are links to exclusive online resources of the author's video presentations and photographs for use in treatment.

This insightful work will prove an essential resource for all chaplains working with people living with dementia, and will enable them to achieve both exceptional patient care and a sense of personal accomplishment.

With the diagnosis of dementia increasing daily, Behers' offers a must-read book for clergy and caregivers. The reader is provided insight into minds of those with dementia as well as exceptional tips for intervening and offering meaningful care. As the writer so aptly reminds us - dementia care attitude is everything.
Dr. Dallas E. Speight, CPE Supervisor and Licensed Professional Counselor
It is with great pleasure that I highly recommend Spiritual Care for People Living with Dementia Using Multisensory Interventions. Dr. Behers has done a tremendous amount of research in preparing this book. I have been honored to be able to assist him by photographing the needed pictures. With sight, combined with the other senses, many have come and will come to an awakening in this life.
Carol A. Gilmore, MMin
"This is a good day to be alive". There is no greater reward than to hear those words coming from an end stage dementia patient. This book is a must-read for anyone in the spiritual care field. Rich Behers is calling us to action, his book provides the tools to make the difference.
Orlando Rodriguez, Chaplain with Cornerstone Hospice and Palliative Care
Richard Behers is an experienced hospice chaplain and Spiritual Care Program Manager who has worked with over 1,000 patients with dementia. He lives in Florida, USA.
Increasingly, spiritual caregivers will serve those with dementia. However, few of us have training to do this demanding work. Having been there, Chaplain Behers has gifted us with a wonderful book that helps us bring compassion and presence to these people who are often so difficult to reach. A must-read.
The Rev. George Handzo, BCC, CSSBB, President Handzo Consulting, LLC