By Bob Gregory
Most people who look for an Assisted Living Facility or
Nursing Home for themselves or an aging parent look for a senior facility that
will meet their physical and mental needs, but what about their spiritual
needs? Studies show that Senior facility residents who have their spiritual
needs met have improved psychological and physical health.
Spirituality is the inner essence of a person that brings
meaning, purpose, hope, well-being and coping mechanisms to their lives. It has
been shown that spirituality helps people find purpose and meaning at the end
of life and helps guide decisions at that time. Often, residents want to
discuss their hopes and fears with their caregiver. These conversations help
them achieve inner peace and acceptance. Spirituality is often, but not always,
expressed in religious affiliation.
Many seniors mourn the loss of their community at church if
they are unable to attend church services. The relationships in the church
community are a vital part of spirituality. Often times, family members can
transport their loved ones to church from the facility. When this is not an
option, religious needs can be met in a Senior Facility.
What questions should
I ask a Senior Facility about religion?
- Do you have chaplains on staff?
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| Praying for our new elder (Photo credit: robinsan) |
- Do you have pastors who come and lead regular worship services?
- Do you provide religious music and encourage residents to sing hymns during services?
- Do you have religious holiday celebrations?
- Do you have special meals for religious holidays?
- Do you decorate the facility for religious holidays?
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| Prayers (Photo credit: Xerones) |
- Can you introduce me or my parent to other residents who share the same faith?
- Are ministers allowed to visit, pray and offer sacraments to me or my parent?
There are also many Assisted Living Facilities and Nursing
Homes that are church affiliated. Some
of Senior Facilities that are affiliated with churches or religious
organizations are often subsidized to help members afford the facility. Be sure to research carefully so you find
just the right Senior Facility to meet the spiritual needs of you or your
elderly parent.
If you find you need an Assisted Living Facility, Nursing
Home or any other type of Senior Facility, I hope you will consider www.seniorfacilityfinder.com.
If you would like to contribute your thoughts and ideas,
please leave them in our comment section. We want to hear them. Helping people
care for themselves or their loved ones is what we care about.
We look forward to reading
yours.
Bob Gregory is an
advocate for Seniors and is one of the founders of www.seniorfacilityfinder.com. At SeniorFacilityFinder.com, we are
dedicated to helping families get the Elder Care help they need without having
to provide their personal information! If find you need an assisted living
facility or other type of senior facility, please consider www.seniorfacilityfinder.com
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