Meeting A Care Receiver On His Own Turf

After knocking on his door and asking permission to come in, I introduced myself to a new resident at Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center, where I serve as the Director of Spiritual Life.

His response was similar to one heard many times over the years since taking this position. “You may not want to talk to me.

I do not go to church, am not religious, and am not sure I believe in God.” “Well I did not come to push church going or religious beliefs, I came to say hello, to hopefully get to know you, and to let you know I am always available to you.” “Oh,” he said, “If that is all you want, have a seat.”   

The rest of the visit was most interesting. He, voluntarily, shared more of himself on that first visit than expected. It did not take long before he raised the issue of religion, of his spiritual journey (what he referred to as “what makes sense out of my life”). Out of that conversation, lively discussions have grown, as has a meaningful relationship.

What I find impressive about this story is a growing awareness for me (as a United Methodist pastor); that “church talk,” “God talk,” and other such language often speaks to our own needs and comfort levels, rather than the needs of the one to whom we are ministering. It can shut down conversation even before it begins. 

Meeting a person on his or her “turf” is far more productive. It more easily opens the door to a person’s spiritual journey and needs. That sense can be insightful on a variety of different levels, particularly when conversations regarding care for our loved ones need to take place.

For those caring for and about older adults, it is good to remember that most people are only too happy to talk about their spiritual journey, their fears, their hopes, and where and how they can make sense of their situations, when our language and approach is non-threatening.

They need to sense that we are not “pushing” our own agenda, and really want to hear their story! There is always the possibility that in hearing about their journey and understanding their fears and wishes, better decisions regarding health care, living situations, coping with changes inherent in the aging process, and such can be made.

From personal experience, allow me to witness what I experience almost daily. When, and only when, people feel as if the one engaging them is truly listening and using language that is comfortable to them, will they share their inner selves and bare their souls. Then, and only then, are they able to grasp the relevance of our concerns and connect it to their own lives, opening the door to shared decision-making, surely a worthy goal of a caregiver and care receiver.