Matters of Life and Death
Dementia: Listening to bodies and the sacramental ministry of touch
Apr 23, 2025
Jess Wyatt, a Vicar in the Church of England and PhD student at Oxford, dives into the intersection of dementia and faith. She discusses how our physical identity relates to personhood, even as cognitive functions decline. The conversation emphasizes the importance of compassionate care and the role of touch in connecting with loved ones affected by dementia. Jess also challenges traditional views on identity, advocating for a holistic understanding rooted in Christian belief. Ultimately, she calls for inclusivity in faith communities to embrace and support those living with dementia.
44:49
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Quick takeaways
- Dementia challenges perceptions of identity, necessitating a compassionate approach that recognizes the person within the physical body despite cognitive decline.
- The significance of physical touch and non-verbal communication is vital in connecting with dementia patients, enhancing their care and emotional well-being.
Deep dives
Understanding Dementia Through Embodiment
Dementia presents complex challenges as it involves a decline in cognitive capacity, leading to questions about personal identity and the self. Jess Wyatt explores how society often views dementia patients, highlighting a common narrative that disassociates the person's identity from their physical presence, leading to the notion that the individual is 'gone' even if their body remains. This perspective can dehumanize those with dementia and ultimately affect their care, as caregivers may overlook the persistent person still within. From a theological standpoint, it is essential to recognize the body as integral to selfhood, affirming that dementia patients retain their identity despite cognitive decline.
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