Prayers . . . for caregivers and the elderly

 

 

Prayer When a Parent Has Dementia

God of patience and comfort, here I am again crying out to you for help.  My father's life has been destroyed by dementia.  He is utterly confused; living in a world beyond my reach, believing things not true, angry and accusing.  He does not recognize me anymore; family and friends are strangers to him.  He is unable to perform simple daily functions.  Frying an egg, balancing his check book, even enjoying a ride in the country are all too more for him.  He wanders from chair, to yard, to his room -- endlessly circling all day long. Paranoid, he babbles of enemies who stalk him.  I do not recognize the kind, intelligent, loving man who was my father.  Where has he gone, Lord?  Dad has died, and yet I cannot bury him.  O God, help!

How could you let this happen, Lord?  He doesn't deserve this terrible disease.  I am angry -- at you, at him, at me.  I can't stand to see him in this state of mental disarray.  My heart is broken.  This is a living death; any unending grief.

What am I to do Father?  I can't keep him at home.  Yet how can I place him in a care facility, betraying the father who met my every need?  Lead me through this wilderness; guide my decisions.  Help me find kind caregivers who will honor him even in his present state.  You are my only Rock of Refuge, Lord.  Please come and help me now.  Thank you.

 Amen

"The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed,

a stronghold in times of trouble . . .

for you, Lord,

have never forsaken those who seek you."

Psalm 9:9-10

Date this page was last edited:  July 11, 2004