159 Innovative Tools for Dementia Care - An Interview with Angela Fairhurst of Geri-Gadgets

In this episode of Hospice Explained, Marie Betcher interviews Angela Fairhurst, founder and CEO of Geri-Gadgets. Angela shares her journey of creating Geri-Gadgets, a company dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with dementia through safe and sensory tools. Highlighting the importance of meaningful connections, Angela discusses the products she developed inspired by her mother's battle with Lewy body dementia. She also elaborates on the profound impact these tools have on patients and caregivers alike, aiming to reduce the stigma around cognitive decline. Additionally, Angela emphasizes the rewarding nature of her work and the importance of proper care and touch in dementia treatment. Throughout the conversation, the significance of hospice care in easing end-of-life transitions is underscored.

00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained

00:48 Understanding Pressure Injuries and Cloud Nine Care

01:25 Interview with Angela Fairhurst: Founder of Geri-Gadgets

02:35 Angela's Personal Journey with Dementia

03:01 Experiences with Hospice Care

06:28 Challenges of Dementia Diagnosis and Care

07:39 Angela's Mother's Final Years

10:58 The Impact of Dementia on Family Life

15:34 The Final Days and Hospice Support

16:23 Discovering the Need for Sensory Toys

17:04 Experimenting with Different Toys

17:59 Creating the Sensory Mat

18:44 Developing a Product Line

19:12 The Story of Jeremy

19:34 Designing for the Aging Eye

20:09 Product Features and Benefits

22:11 Market Reception and Reviews

22:30 Challenges and Future Plans

24:06 Global Interest and Expansion

28:39 The Importance of Connection

29:46 The Comfort of Geri-Gadgets

30:39 Making a Difference

31:13 Conclusion and Call to Action

https://www.geri-gadgets.com/

Hospice Explained Affiliates & Contact Information

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Maire introduces a partnership with Suzanne Mayer RN inventor of the cloud9caresystem.com, When patients remain in the same position for extended periods, they are at high risk of developing pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores. One of the biggest challenges caregivers face is the tendency for pillows and repositioning inserts to easily dislodge during care.(Suzanne is a former guest on Episode #119)

When you order with Cloud 9 care system, please tell them you heard about them from Hospice Explained.(Thank You)

If you would, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice

Marie's Contact [email protected] www.HospiceExplained.com

Finding a Hospice Agency

1. You can use Medicare.gov to help find a hospice agency,

2. choose Find provider

3. Choose Hospice

4. then add your zip code

This should be a list of Hospice Agencies local to you or your loved one.