'the purpose of this book is to affirm and facilitate an awareness that people with dementia are unconditionally held within the love of God, and that it is part of the calling of the church to minister to them with sensitivity and compassion'

The person with dementia or the person with dementia? Whom do we see? These questions posed in the first part of the book challenge the reader to examine his/her own attitudes, in the context of the current incidence of dementia..

The second part of the book provides an understanding of care for people with dementia - what is happening to the person, and some of th behavioural issues. The content includes subjective experiences of people living with dementia and their carers. The clear descriptions of what dementia really means to those living with it enable the reader to gain some insight. Likewise, attention to the consequences and problems provides excellent suggestions to help us to be aware of how best to provide effective support. The issues facing the family and carers are comprehensively tackled and the difficult ones are not shirked.

The third part considers the response of the church. Us. How do we behave and what do we do? Some of the worldview questions - why me? - are discussed and there are practical guidelines for visiting people in care and for designing appropriate worship.

Fourthly, there are thought provoking theological reflections and practical suggestions for forms of worship to suit a variety of situations.

In the context of the current realities of increased life expectancy and the demographic shift towards a predominance of elderly people, dementia is an issue which affects us all. This book provides a straightforward introduction to the needs and experiences of those members of the church community who are directly affected by dementia.

Malcolm is a recognised international expert in the area of spirituality and dementia and has the knack of being able to convey his knowledge to others in a way which is eminently understandable, person-centred and never patronising. The material is brought alive through compassionately presented vignettes. By way of examples:- I challenge anyone to read the chapter entitled 'the experience of dementia' and remain unaware of the issues - they are clearly stated, including negative experiences and the unhelpful attitudes which still prevail. One of the most difficult things for affecting our relationship with someone with dementia is how to communicate with him/her. Malcolm makes suggestions which we are all capable of following. This information is what people want to know and what those who minister ought to know. For the more academically minded, there are recent references to follow up.

Having once gone to visit a relative whom I found tied to a chair in case he wandered and injured himself by falling, I welcome a text which encourages thoughtful and compassionate understanding of the needs of people with dementia .

This book deserves a wide readership. Church members and clergy cannot fail to gain from reading it, and institutional carers would also benefit from the broader understanding of the meaning of dementia to those they are looking after. (How many textbooks contain an index with multiple entries for hope, love and understanding?)

Buy it, read it and reach out to those who need support. And keep it handy for reference.