Dementia: Living in the Memories of God

Dementia: Living in the Memories of God

by JohnSwinton (Author)

Synopsis

Dementia is one of the most feared diseases in Western society today. Some have even gone so far as to suggest euthanasia as a solution to the perceived indignity of memory loss and the disorientation that accompanies it. In this book John Swinton develops a practical theology of dementia for caregivers, people with dementia, ministers, hospital chaplains, and medical practitioners as he explores two primary questions: * Who am I when I've forgotten who I am? * What does it mean to love God and be loved by God when I have forgotten who God is? Offering compassionate and carefully considered theological and pastoral responses to dementia and forgetfulness, Swinton's Dementia: Living in the Memories of God redefines dementia in light of the transformative counter story that is the gospel.

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More Information

Format: Paperback
Pages: 304
Edition: First Edition
Publisher: SCM Press
Published: 30 Nov 2012

ISBN 10: 0334046726
ISBN 13: 9780334046721
Prizes: Shortlisted for Michael Ramsey Prize for Theological Writing 2016.

Media Reviews
There can be no greater fear than the possibility of losing our memory. Modernity may have offered us longevity but at some threat to our human wellbeing. Dementia poses many fundamental theological and pastoral challenges. John Swinton has produced a masterpiece, exploring the many dimensions of Dementia. Here is pastoral theology at its best - careful, sensitive, clear, searching, insight and with an integrated theology that supports good care. I warmly commend it to the widest possible readership. -- James Woodward
This is a truly monumental book, not in length but in depth and scope, with a liberating and empowering message for theologians, pastoral carers and church communities. It engages honestly and creatively with the big issues raised by dementia: personhood and identity, mind and memory, body and soul, and (movingly) the value to be found in every human life. No one is better qualified to write it than John Swinton. Prepare yourself for a challenging but immensely rewarding read! It is Biblical and practical theology at its very best. -- Albert Jewell
Grounded in deep pastoral concern and theological integrity, Dementia: living in the memories of God, is essential reading for anyone wishing to develop an understanding of dementia from a Christian perspective. John Swinton provides an important and timely re-description of the story of dementia which offers hope based on experience and insight. The reader is encouraged to recognise the darkness of dementia as only part of the story in which the person continues to be held in relationship by God who does not forget. A practical theology for dementia, and the continued importance of visiting, is worked out in the new story he offers. -- Margaret Goodall
In this clearly written and accessible volume, Swinton incorporates the best insights of contemporary psychological approaches to human memory and dementia care into a biblically grounded theology. The result is an account that does not shy away from the pain and challenge that faces people affected by dementia, yet at the same time asserts a transformative vision of their situation based on the grace of the God who creates and redeems them. -- Joanna Collicut
`John Swinton has clearly become the premier pastoral theologian of our time. In this book he approaches the troubled topic of dementia with his usual thoroughness, engaging the science with an unapologetic theological voice. Dementia: Living in the Memories of God will become a classic.' -- Stanley Hauerwas
Author Bio
John Swinton is Professor of Practical Theology and Pastoral Care in the University of Aberdeen.