1. Making Connections Worshipping with people with dementia 5th Annual Conference on Spirituality and Ageing 2013 Susan Kirkbride Minister, Saughtonhall Church, Edinburgh

2. Agenda Value of worship My story Involving others Some practicalities Questions 3. Why bother Worship provides a way for people to express their spirituality. Meaningful activity Improved mood/wellbeing Being able to participate Give Interact Reduces challenging behaviour 4. Sharing worship in public settings Care Home Day Care Hospital 5. Worship The word that became flesh has become word again! 6. Music Music is THE key Familiar hymns Slow and low Piano playing 7. Evolving a different style of worship Visual 8. I lift my eyes to the hills 9. All things bright and beautiful 10. I am the good shepherd 11. Evolving a different style of worship Visual Non-verbal Acting out readings Stimulating other senses props 12. Alternative visuals / use of senses Bread Bulbs Flowers Fish Christian Aid 13. The Olympics 14. God does not grow tired Isaiah 40 15. Some practical learnings 16. Realising this is church Visual cues Collar Physical layout Podium with bible Linen cloth Flowers Candle 17. Realising this is church Non verbal cues Playing music as they come in and leave Greeting Smiling Eye contact Sitting down with someone 18. Words in Worship Repetition The message has to be brief and slow but not trite Scripture in a familiar version; get someone to read? Hymns printed out singing through gritted teeth Prayer Off by heart or clear structure 19. Brief prayer An appropriate prayer to be said very slowly Prayer of approach Thank you God, that you have always loved the world you have made. Confession How ever far we may stray from you Assurance of pardon Your love is always there to welcome us Thanksgiving Thanks be to God 20. Making it happen Staff support is key Help preparing the venue Good opportunity for involvement from Congregation Regularity Music Have some sweets! 21. Listening I have not been to church in such a long time Being present Taking them seriously They are fed by the experience 22. Summary Connections Senses Paced Simplicity So why bother? 23. Questions 24. I lift my eyes to the hills 25. My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth 26. My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth 27. Susan Kirkbride 2013