43. A Proactive Perspective in Dementia Care

12/06/23 • 30 min

Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly, the visionary Founder and Executive Director of Veranda Ministries, has added a new dimension to her impactful work in senior care with the release of her latest book, A Proactive Perspective in Dementia Care: A Relationship-Based Approach, on November 2, 2023. The book is now available in paperback and ebook version on Amazon.

In her book, Oglesby-Sutherly draws upon her extensive experience as a certified dementia practitioner and her role as a leader in senior care advocacy. A Proactive Perspective provides a unique and empowering approach to dementia care, emphasizing the importance of proactive strategies in fostering meaningful relationships with individuals facing cognitive challenges.

A Proactive Perspective invites readers to ponder a deeper meaning to personhood, challenge stigmas surrounding dementia, and celebrate enduring human connections. Oglesby-Sutherly encourages caregivers, family, and individuals involved in experiencing dementia to live a more vibrant and connected life with each other. Oglesby-Sutherly founded Veranda Ministries, an accredited non-profit organization offering dementia care, and The Veranda, a respite program for aging adults.

Podcast producer, Sue Duffield, praises the relevancy and biblical necessity of “The Kingdom principle" as definitively described in scripture. According to Leviticus 19:32, to ‘Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God.’ Mary-Anne says it best: 'Sadly, instead of a refuge to run to as we age, church has become more of a place to run from.' Something is horribly lost when our local church stops considering the aging members of their congregation as part of their community. Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly, and her diverse ministry of caring for those with dementia, teaches and facilitates churches, via conferences and outreaches on how to understand the need for congregations to embrace generational care and its benefits.”

Previous Episode

42. Scams, Lies and Truth of Dealing with Dementia Eldercare

Being prepared is one thing, but not having the correct knowledge and fortitude to make sure your loved one is getting the care they need, is another. Featured in this episode is Jeff Duffield and his sister, Susan Kuff, along with host, Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly, as they converse quite candidly the near disaster of caregiving and a NJ nursing home. This true account of Jeff and Susan’s uncle and the journey they had to consistently walk, is not new nor is it uncommon. With supplementary insurance scams and television commercials that make eldercare look easy and affordable, it’s no wonder that seniors find it so cunningly attractive.

Susan Kuff, a CIGNA professional and one who has counseled many in this Medicare/Supplemental area, found herself in the same predicament as those she counsels. She and her brother, Jeff, fought the system through countless lies and deceit. The best part of this episode is the vulnerable reality that care partnering has to be relentless, not leaving one stone uncovered.

www.verandaministries.org

Next Episode

44. Dreaming, Dementia and the Holidays

Even in congnitive decline, the neural processes of dreaming bring important benefits for regulating the emotions and creativity. One certain client named Martha of the Veranda in Gallatin, TN, is mentioned both in this episode and Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly's book. Depicting a story in grandiose detail, Martha describes her loved one coming home on Christmas Eve. She eloquently shares the sound of the train whistle in the distance. Much of the story isn't true, but it goes to show you that the incredible detail of a brain suffering with dementia can dream up amazing colorful stories.

This episode 44 is also dedicated to Ricky, who just after recording, passed on to his eternal home.

Making memories with your loved ones is better than any extravagant pricey gift. Keep it simple. Find a new normal. Take them where their heart is. Make even the slightest little thing special. This is the basis of relationship-based care, especially during the holidays.

Mary Anne and host, Sue Duffield, share their way of understanding what it takes to minister to a population of caregivers for the elderly and those with dementia. Our best gift to them is a voice of advocacy.

www.theverandaministries.org

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