Redefining Dementia

When Maurie Voisey-Barlin, an elder engagement specialist with a knack for mischief, joins the conversation, you know you're in for a treat. From sunny Australia, Maurie enlightens us with approaches to dementia care that break the mold, emphasizing the need to harvest history and foster genuine connections with those experiencing cognitive decline. His humourous, warm stories remind us that through curiosity, improvisation, and genuine human connection, we can significantly enrich the lives ...

On this episode, we welcome Jennifer Buchanan, Music Therapist and the founder of JB Music Therapy, who shares with us the art of harnessing this power to enrich the lives of those living with dementia. Throughout the episode, Jennifer shares impactful examples of how music therapy provides solace and sparks joy when words sometimes fail.Jennifer relays how offering music is not just entertainment but also a lifeline to memories and emotions. Her practical tips and insights aim to guide careg...

On this episode, we are joined by Registered Dietitian and President of SuzyQ Menu Concepts, Suzanne Quiring. Suzanne shares her passion & experience on “how” meal service can be done as resident focused as possible, and the culture change that is needed to do so. Listeners will gain tips on providing a harmonious dining environment, and caregivers will learn to navigate the challenges of dietary care - turning a routine activity into a peaceful experience that supports both physical heal...

This episode promises an enlightening conversation with Sonya Barsnes, a revisionary gerontologist, advocating for a different perspective on aging and dementia. We'll explore the topics of social isolation, loneliness, and prescribed disengagement, and discuss the importance of meaningful engagement for those living with dementia.We talk about the concept of 'prescribed disengagement', which illustrates how societal stigma and lack of awareness often lead to a withdrawal from the world post-...

Prepare yourself for a rich and enlightening journey into the world of advanced care planning with our distinguished guest, Jim Kinsey. As the director of member services at Planetree International, Jim's knowledge of the field is both vast and profound. Together, we'll unravel the intricacies of advanced care planning and system navigation, highlighting the crucial role of personalized care, and the value of understanding individual needs. We unmask the stigmas that often shadow dementi...

This episode features Sheila Warnock, founder and CEO of Share the Caregiving Incorporated, who demonstrates the power of collective action in revolutionizing the caregiver landscape. She shares her journey from an advertising career to creating a solution for the global caregiver crisis. Sheila imparts valuable advice on forming a Share the Care group, underscoring the importance of shared understanding and responsibility. She also enlightens us on self-care for caregivers and how being a ca...

Join us in warmly welcoming our cherished friend, Jim Mann, who bravely shares his poignant journey through living with dementia. His story is not only deeply personal but also an inspiration, as he continues to live his life fully and purposefully, despite his diagnosis. Through his firsthand experience as a caregiver, and later as someone living with the condition, Jim sheds light on the importance of understanding and encouragement for those who are in similar situations.Get ready to be in...

Have you ever stopped to wonder about the power of the stories we tell ourselves? What if there was a way to redefine the narrative around dementia, not as a decline, but as a journey of discovery? That's what we're exploring today with our distinguished guest, Dr. Bill Randall, a retired professor of gerontology, author, and passionate advocate for narrative care. Together, we delve deep into the profound impact of stories on our identity, health, relationships, and ultimately, our wisdom as...

Imagine if through the practice of stillness, we could unlock a deeper sense of calm and peace, not just for ourselves, but also for people living with dementia. Professor Dr. Gary Irwin-Kenyon, our special guest for today, shares his incredible journey finding tranquility through martial arts and Tai Chi, and how these methods can bring profound benefits to those with dementia and their care partners. We take a deep dive into the fascinating world of stillness and its immense potential in de...

Are you ready to go on a soulful journey and redefine dementia with us? We're joined by Rahzeb Choudhury, founder of Lifelong Inspiration and co-founder of TrueDoors, who helps us unravel the birth of Person Centered Universe and the significance of our mission. We aim to create transformative conversations around dementia care and reveal how the Person Centered Universe took shape. We promise you'll gain profound insights into our shared vision for a future where dementia care is human-centr...