Worship & Wonder with People Struggling with Dementia
The Worship & Wonder approach is based on stories from Young Children & Wonder by Sonja Stewart and Jerome Berryman which was initially designed to introduce young children to Bible stories, can be an incredibly effective and comforting tool for adults with dementia. This method uses simple storytelling, tactile elements, and a gentle pacing that resonates well with adults experiencing memory loss or cognitive challenges. Here’s why and how it can be especially meaningful for them.
Worship & Wonder
Why It Works for Adults with Dementia
- Sensory Engagement: Dementia-friendly storytelling sessions often involve touchable props—such as felt pieces, smooth stones, or wooden figures—that bring the story to life in a gentle, non-verbal way. These tactile elements offer a grounding experience, helping participants stay connected to the present moment and story.
- Simple Language and Rhythm: Worship & Wonder uses stories with simple, repetitive language and a slow pace, which can be reassuring and easier to follow. This steady rhythm helps reduce feelings of confusion or overwhelm, allowing adults with dementia to relax and absorb each part of the story.
- Reflective Wondering: After each story, open-ended “wondering” questions allow participants to respond in their own way. This invitation to reflect fosters emotional connection and gives adults with dementia space to express themselves, whether verbally or simply through their presence and reactions.
- Familiarity and Comfort: Many Bible stories used in this approach, like the story of the Good Shepherd or the Parable of the Lost Coin, are familiar and comforting, often evoking memories and providing reassurance of God’s presence.
Practical Tips for Using This Approach
- Create a Calm Space: Set up a quiet, familiar environment for storytelling, free from distractions, and with soft lighting to promote a sense of safety.
- Use Gentle, Sensory Materials: Incorporate touchable elements like fabric, sand, or figures, allowing participants to explore and feel connected to the story physically.
- Encourage Simple Responses: Allow for non-verbal expressions, such as a smile, a touch, or a nod, as a way for participants to engage with the story and express their connection.
- Maintain Routine: Try to share stories regularly at the same time each week. This routine can create a sense of predictability and comfort for adults with dementia, becoming a treasured ritual in their week.
Worship & Wonder
The Power of Connection
By incorporating “Young Children & Worship” stories into dementia care, caregivers, and family members can create meaningful, calming moments that nurture the spirit and allow adults with dementia to experience a sense of love, faith, and peace. Through simple, sensory-rich storytelling, we can offer them a reminder of their place in God’s story and the reassurance that they are not alone.