In her work as cofounder of Home Instead Senior Care, Lori Hogan has seen what Jeff Bjorck saw: Faith is crucial in helping you meet the daily challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. Here are some of Lori’s favorite Bible verses for family caregivers:
If you feel overwhelmed: The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.—Psalm 23:1–4
If you’re struggling with how much dementia has changed your loved one: “…Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”—Matthew 25:40
If you feel that frustration or anger is getting the best of you: For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.—2 Timothy 1:7
If you’re worried about what lies ahead: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”—Jeremiah 29:11
If you feel like you are in crisis: I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.—Psalm 121:1–2
If you’re dealing with the difficult behaviors of dementia: “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”—John 15:12–13
If you need a reminder that God is with you: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.—Romans 8:28
A prayer from Strength for the Moment, Lori’s book of devotions for family caregivers: “Sustaining Lord, it’s hard to watch my loved one decline. I ask you to give me strength during difficult caregiving situations and protect me from discouragement. Give me a willing spirit to see things from different perspectives so I may grow from my caregiving experiences and ultimately come closer to you.”
For more support for family caregivers, including free training, visit helpforalzheimersfamilies.com.
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