Elisa Bosley, founder of Spiritual Eldercare, discusses her work as a chaplain in a memory care community, including leading worship services and Bible studies for adults with dementia. She shares personal experiences with Alzheimer's and dementia in her family, and explores strategies for creating inclusive worship environments amidst religious diversity. Bosley also emphasizes the importance of embracing togetherness and living in the present moment.
Being present in the moment is a significant takeaway from the podcast, as individuals with dementia exemplify living in the present.
Elder care can be incredibly joyful, challenging the perception of elders as lost or diminished, and highlighting their ability to serve and deserve love.
Deep dives
The Importance of Elder Care and Being Present in the Moment
Elder Care: The podcast episode discusses the importance of honoring and loving our elders, specifically focusing on those experiencing dementia or nearing end of life. The speaker emphasizes the need for an attitude adjustment in society and the church to value and invest in elder care, despite the lack of tangible return on investment. The main takeaway is the significance of being present in the moment and how individuals with dementia exemplify living in the present, which can be a lesson for all of us.
The Joy and Delight Found in Elder Care
Joy and Delight: The podcast episode highlights the misconception that elder care is depressing and introduces the idea that it can be incredibly joyful. The speaker shares personal experiences of humor, tenderness, and the sense of community found among individuals with dementia. This challenges the perception of elders as lost or diminished, demonstrating that they are very much alive, capable of serving, and deserving of love and honor.
The Need for Church to Prioritize Elder Care
Church Involvement: The podcast episode calls for an adjustment in the approach of the larger church community to better love and honor our elders. This includes shifting the focus from ROI-driven program decisions and embracing the value of elder care, despite the lack of immediate tangible benefits. Additionally, the speaker emphasizes the importance of churches showing up and actively engaging with their local long-term care communities through regular visits and support, providing resources and training for individuals who feel called to this ministry.
Personal Reflection: Making a Difference in Elder Care
Personal Reflection: The podcast episode concludes with the speaker sharing personal reflections on the lessons learned from working in elder care and how it has impacted their perspective on life. They express a desire to bring the wisdom and presence of elders into all aspects of life, emphasizing the importance of living in the moment and finding joy in simple interactions. The speaker also provides information about their work and resources available to support individuals interested in getting involved in elder care ministry.
Brent Billings and Elle Grover Fricks are joined by Elisa Bosley, founder of Spiritual Eldercare. Elisa has decades of experience leading worship services and Bible studies, and also working with adults who have dementia. Combining those efforts, she became a chaplain in 2016 and serves at a long-term memory care community in Boulder, Colorado.