The book is designed to facilitate Christian worship. It accomodates to the unique perceptual conditions that arise from Alzheimer’s disease (or various other problems of cognition); thus the large type size and sans serif face, simplicity of format, and rather literal connection between the illustrations and the lyrics. Songs have been chosen for their qualities of optimism, comfort, cheer, familiarity to the age cohort most likely to use the book, concreteness in expression of praise and thanksgiving, and alignment with traditional Christianity.
The book and compatible CD have brought great comfort to many homebound or institutionalized individuals. The music is presented in a personal format, as it would sound if the musicians were making a personal visit. Some people like to sing along with the CD, others “page along” as they listen, while still others will read or sing without the CD. It has been useful with groups, and is available without the CD.
We encourage family members and friends to sing along with those they visit. Emphasis is on meaning and melody to evoke recognition and an experience of private worship. It is well established by research that music powerfully can stimulate alertness, and bring joy and comfort, all of which invigorates those whose life circumstances are confined by physical, mental, or emotional limitations. Every chance you get, sing boldly, for by doing so you kindle the warmth of Christian praise and thanks in the mind and heart of the persons you are with.
The Songs: Holy, Holy, Holy; He Leadeth Me; Fairest Lord Jesus; Blessed Assurance; Jesus Lover of My Soul; In the Garden; Jesus Loves Me; Rock of Ages; Abide With Me; Jesus Loves the Little Children; All Hail the Power of Jesus Name; My Faith Looks Up to Thee; What a Friend We Have in Jesus; The Old Rugged Cross; For the Beauty of the Earth; Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee; Amazing Grace.
Betty S. writes to us with enthusiasm about what happened one day: "My Pastor had an interesting experience with one of the ladies he visits in a nursing home. She has dementia and when she saw his CD player she said, 'I don't want to hear any music.' He showed her the book and she liked the large print and the beautiful pictures. She agreed to listen to the music and started to sing along. It turned out to be a great visit." (Betty, Western NC) You, too, can use the book and CD to lift the spirits of men and women whose world is confined. It is a wonderful gift!
From a Director of Therapeutic and Recreational Services: "The giant print song books make reading for our senior adults easier. They also enjoy the pretty pictures that accompany the songs." (Dianne, Indiana)
From the Program Director of a Memory Care Center:"Our Alzheimer's residents thoroughly love the old hymns with such beautiful graphics on each page." (Dawn, TN)
