Join us as we uncover the heart of meaningful engagement in dementia care with Shelley Shillington, Senior Consultant and Trainer at Person Centred Universe. With 35 years in long-term care, including senior management, Shelley has dedicated her career to person-centred approaches and sustainable transformation in dementia care. Hosts Jana Jones and Ashley King explore Shelley’s journey, from a Physical Education graduate with a passion for elder care to becoming a recognized leader who chairs the Alzheimer Society of New Brunswick and serves on the national board of the Alzheimer Society of Canada.

In this insightful conversation, Shelley shares her expertise in creating authentic connections through personalized engagement, transforming everyday activities like sharing a cup of tea into moments that honor individuality and dignity. With practical advice for both professional and family care partners, Shelley also highlights strategies for combating caregiver burnout and integrating mindfulness and resilience into caregiving routines. Discover how small celebrations, reminiscence, and compassionate care foster a culture of choice and personhood in dementia care. This episode offers a compassionate, practical vision of what dementia care can and should be—a space for dignity, joy, and meaningful connection.

About our Hosts:

https://www.personcentreduniverse.com/about/

In Part 2 of our conversation with Maurie Voisey-Barlin, we're reminded that every person has a story needing to be heard, especially those with dementia. On this episode, we discuss Maurie's person-centred approach, celebrating the power of connection and the art of relationship-centred care. 

This conversation unveils the layers of nuanced interaction essential to reach someone's core, even when memories fade. Maurie shares about mischief, finding joy in the playful and the routine, as well as how his 'satellite' technique demonstrates that circling around can lead to a heartfelt connection. Each story shared is a lesson in patience, respect, and the personal touch that turns caregiving into an art form.

Maurie's tales illustrate the profound impact of tailored communication and genuine understanding. This episode is not just a discussion; it's an invitation to witness the transformation that occurs when we truly engage with the hearts and minds of people living with dementia.

Maurie's Bio and LinkedIn
Eden Alternative & Dr. Bill Thomas
Dr. Al Power - Seven Domains of Well-Being
Jane Verity
Dan Cohen - Music & Memory
Judy Cornish

About our Hosts:

https://www.personcentreduniverse.com/about/

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 of our elders.

This episode is a celebration of the art of collaboration in healthcare, where every team member plays a pivotal role in crafting a culture of person-centred care. Together, we discuss the immense value of preserving personal histories and extending empathy within dementia care, hoping to inspire and offer solace to those who navigate this challenging yet profoundly human journey.

Maurie's Bio and LinkedIn
Eden Alternative & Dr. Bill Thomas
Dr. Al Power - Seven Domains of Well-Being
Jane Verity
Dan Cohen - Music & Memory
Judy Cornish

About our Hosts:

https://www.personcentreduniverse.com/about/

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 caregivers and families in creating musical experiences that are as impactful as they are meaningful, highlighting the importance of consistency and overcoming the hurdles that technology can present, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can access the therapeutic benefits of music.

Join us as we celebrate the resilience music therapy fosters across all walks of life, at all ages, and how music remains a sure friend in the journey through dementia.

Links & Resources:
Jennifer's LinkedIn
JB Music Therapy
Jennifer's Website
Jennifer's Book Publications
Canadian Association of Music Therapists
Link to the video Jennifer references in the episode

About our Hosts:

https://www.personcentreduniverse.com/about/

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 health and cognitive well-being.

Suzanne's insights extend into the heart of healthcare communities, where her SuzyQ Cart System is revolutionizing the dining experiences for residents.  She shares how this revolutionary movement is reshaping meal service through increased resident & staff interaction and the power of offering choice.

Please see the following links to resources Suzanne shares in this episode:
Pioneer Network
The Eden Alternative
Butterfly Model of Care
Pineapple Academy
Research Institute of Aging (RIA)
RIA Choice+ Program
Dietitians of Canada
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Suzanne's LinkedIn

About our Hosts:

https://www.personcentreduniverse.com/about/

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-diagnosis. We argue against this mindset and stress the need for accessible environments, education, and understanding for individuals with dementia. We also explore how life can still offer growth experiences for people with dementia.

Finally, we offer practical solutions for continued engagement in activities that spark joy. We emphasize the need for honest communication between patients and their loved ones and the importance of asking for and accepting help. We address the challenges of social isolation, and how with self-compassion and authenticity, individuals can find joy and purpose in their communities. Join us, as we redefine dementia together, advocating for a less stigmatized and more inclusive space for those affected.

Resources from this episode:
Flipping Stigma Tool Kit
Pathways to Wellbeing with Dementia: Manual of Help, Hope, and Inspiration

Please email Sonya at [email protected] so sign up to her newsletter

Sonya's LinkedIn
Sonya's Website

About our Hosts:

https://www.personcentreduniverse.com/about/

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 dementia, emphasizing the importance of listening to the voices of those directly affected. Advanced care planning, we'll discover, is a beacon of guidance for home caregivers, providing respite and decision-making confidence during challenging times. Jim shares personal experiences, and underscores the impact of a well-prepared advanced care plan and its role in easing the grieving process for everyone involved.

We'll delve into the significance of safety, self-determination, and creating dementia-friendly environments that uphold these values. A humanized approach to care, we'll learn, can enhance autonomy and redefine the narrative around dementia. As we entertain thought-provoking questions and exchange enlightening ideas, our conversation will challenge listeners to shift their perspective and redefine the concept of dementia itself. So, join us on this remarkable journey as we reshape the way we think about dementia and advanced care planning.

You can find Jim Kinsey on LinkedIn or by emailing [email protected]

About our Hosts:

https://www.personcentreduniverse.com/about/

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 caregiver can be a life-changing experience.

We delve into how a Share the Care group can be tailored to the specific needs of the person receiving care. Sheila shares effective strategies for managing a Share the Care group and the profound impact it can have on the caregiver's experience. She also emphasizes the benefits of virtual teams for those unable to be physically present, and the significance of community and nurturing each other.

 Whether you're a caregiver, someone wanting to lend a hand, or just interested in understanding caregiving better, this episode provides practical tools and resources to create a compassionate caregiving network. Join us and discover how you can make a difference in the lives of caregivers and those living with dementia.
Share the Care: A Community that Cares, Share the Care for the LGBTQ Community, Who Cares for the Person Alone

About our Hosts:

https://www.personcentreduniverse.com/about/

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 inspired as Jim walks us through his life-changing journey, providing valuable insights on how to adapt to life with dementia. He weaves a compelling narrative about the power of purpose, the significance of staying connected, and how maintaining a sense of independence can make a significant difference. Jim’s story is a testament to the human spirit, highlighting the importance of understanding unique experiences with dementia and the power of choosing to live a full life, regardless of a dementia diagnosis.

Rounding off our conversation, we delve into Jim’s advocacy work, which focuses on shifting the narrative around dementia. He emphasizes on acknowledging the capabilities of individuals, rather than just their limitations. Through his work, Jim strives to redefine the stigma around dementia, focusing on a future of hope and opportunities. His story serves as a reminder that life doesn’t stop after diagnosis; instead, it’s an invitation to adapt, focus on possibilities, and continue to live a fulfilling and meaningful life. So, join us in this enlightening and impactful conversation, there's much to learn and much to be inspired by.

Jim's LinkedIn

Jim's Bio and publication list

About our Hosts:

https://www.personcentreduniverse.com/about/

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 we age.

There's much more to narrative care than meets the eye. It's not just about reminiscing; it's about keeping an individual's story alive, even when memory starts to fade. We'll discuss the role of narrative care in medical treatment, often serving as an alternative to medication, and the narrative challenges that might surface in later life. We also talk about tangible steps to support someone in care and how narrative can build resilience not only for individuals living with dementia but also for those caring for them.

We'll also be exploring how narrative care can create more meaningful interactions with people living with dementia. We discuss the importance of creating a sense of understanding and comfort, focusing on the person, not their condition. So, join us as we redefine dementia through the power of stories and narratives. This is not just a conversation about dementia, but about life, memory, and the stories that make us who we are.

About our Hosts:

https://www.personcentreduniverse.com/about/