Regionlaer Impulstag 2018

The “Bund Evangelisch-Freikichlicher Gemeinden, BEFG” (Federation of Evangelical Free Churches, BEFG) and the Diakoniewerk Kirchröder Turm jointly invited to the impulse day on the topic "Dementia - Living with a head full of honey".

25 participants took up the invitation to this interesting topic and experienced a special day on October 20, 2018 in the rooms of the Diakoniewerk Kirchröder Turm in Hanover.

"Dementia, the disease of forgetfulness, is a disease of old age”.
Dealing with the increasing number of dementia patients is an ethical question with regard to our understanding of values and the concept of humanity, and is linked to  the future issues of our society. What can positive perspectives look like? What are the effects of using music with people living with dementia?

 

Relatives, those interested and those affected alike approached these questions through presentations and exchange. In her keynote speech on "Interacting with people suffering from dementia" Gabriele Löding (Diakonie lecturer, mission department of the BEFG) emphasised how  important habits, the including of all senses and feelings are for both those suffering from dementia and for their caregivers.

Johanne Dziewas (student of musical science) explained that music not only reduces the risk of developing dementia, but can also improve emotions, memories and activities.

In three workshops in the afternoon, the participants approached the topic in different ways:

  • "Basal stimulation" with Sabine Schmidt (Head of the Outpatient Hospice Service at the Diakoniewerk Kirchröder Turm)
  • ·"I am not sure what this means ... Communication in dementia" with Monika Glaßer, therapist at the counselling centre Kirchröder Turm
  • "Suggestions for the use of music with dementia patients" with Johanne Dziewas


“I have been caring for my husband, who has dementia, for years now. Today was so good for me because I was able to speak openly about my experiences and challenges”, said an older participant at the end of the day.


“I work in a nursing home. Personally, I thought the suggestions for the use of music for people living with dementia were great! I'm very motivated to integrate music into my work much more now”, said another participant.


“I had never heard of basal stimulation. After the workshop I am thrilled to have found a new way to 'communicate' with my grandmother who has dementia. Through touching her I am close to her and she feels it. I think that's great!”, said a young participant who came to find a new way to connect with her grandmother.


Hans-Peter Pfeifenbring, Chairman of the Board of the Diakoniewerk Kirchröder Turm, thanked the speakers for their inspiration, and the workshop leaders for many valuable suggestions. Due to the good feedback, the ‘Impulse Day’ will be organized again soon.


(From: Press release of the Kirchröder Turm and the BEFG, October 24th, 2018)