Dementia

By John Swinton

Book Description

When memory fades and familiar faces become strangers, profound questions emerge that touch the very core of human identity and faith. John Swinton addresses one of our most challenging contemporary realities through a deeply compassionate theological lens, offering guidance for anyone walking alongside those affected by dementia.

This thoughtful exploration tackles two fundamental questions that arise when cognitive abilities decline: How do we understand our essential self when memory fails us, and what happens to our relationship with the divine when we can no longer recall who God is? Rather than accepting despair or viewing memory loss as an insurmountable tragedy, Swinton presents an alternative perspective rooted in Christian understanding.

Written for caregivers, family members, clergy, chaplains, and healthcare professionals, this work provides both theological insight and practical wisdom for navigating the complex emotional and spiritual terrain of dementia. Swinton challenges prevailing cultural narratives that equate human worth with cognitive function, instead proposing that our identity and divine connection transcend what we can remember or articulate.

Through careful theological reflection, the author reframes dementia within the broader context of gospel hope, suggesting that even when our own memories fail, we remain held within something greater than ourselves. This perspective offers comfort and direction for those seeking meaning amid one of life's most difficult journeys.