St. David’s is proud to be a Dementia Friendly Church
Very few churches in the United States have followed the UK model to become dementia friendly. St. David’s wanted to do something about that.
The spiritual needs of people living with dementia remain untouched by cognitive decline. Our posture toward people with dementia needs to enhance their dignity, personhood, unique stories, and role in the Kingdom of God. Their Kingdom work has changed, but it has not ended. It is our job and our privilege to remind them that they are a gift from the Lord.
Over seven million people in the United States are living with dementia. By 2050, it is estimated that number will double, if not triple. As you undoubtedly know, Alzheimer's Disease is the most common form of dementia, and Florida is home to about 10% of people living with Alzheimer's disease in the United States.
Dementia Friendly Initiative
In June of 2022, we announced the launch of the St. David’s by the Sea Dementia Friendly Initiative. In July, over 30 people gathered from three churches to brainstorm ways that we could better support those who are living with dementia.
We identified four areas of focus: Education, Resources, Practical Support, and Spiritual Support.
Worship Support
If you attend our Sunday services with someone living with dementia and need assistance, look for this sticker on our name tags. This sticker indicates that the wearer is a certified Dementia Friend.
St. David’s Institute Dementia Friendly Church Certification
The St. David’s Institute has created a certification process for churches who also want to become Dementia Friendly. This process is designed to be easy and budget friendly regardless of church size.
Whether you are a church leader interested in our certification process, or a caregiver who wants to know more about the steps we have taken at St. David’s, we encourage you to download our certification packet by clicking the button below.