Nadine will be long remembered as a faithful volunteer and servant. She was a true friend of Veranda Ministries and a true treasure to everyone who knew her.

The best part of this story is listening to Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly share her bond with Nadine as her advocate, EOLD/Dementia Doula. Relationship-based care was in full operation, and there's no doubt that we all can learn from this example of love.

This episode also includes part one of Randy’s story, a journey no family wants to take. His treatment in an emergency room and the care he received in a specialized unit are ones no family should have to endure.

Mary Anne's outrage over his care (and lack thereof) is the result of a disheartening and unfortunate commonplace experience of how those living with dementia are treated in some medical facilities and specialized units around the country. PLWD deserve better care.

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Research tells us how people think about aging, the elderly, and abuse - finds that people very quickly and unconsciously draw a line between older people and the “rest of us.” This mindset isn’t restricted to how we think about the elderly and the problems it creates; it contributes to a range of social issues, including racial and economic discrimination. But why does it seem more prevalent in this particular aging group we call "seniors", no matter the color of their skin?

Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and producer, Sue Duffield, take the word "advocacy" to heart and to a new level. It's time for non-profits, churches and ministries to seriously examine how they treat, care and recognize the elderly in their organizations.

Also mentioned on this episode is the new video release from the Veranda Ministries, "Dementia's Hidden Heroes", available on YouTube - https://youtu.be/lemoJAp8Yos?si=oOpwXPpMhb3N7M7h

The amazing story of "The Fifth Sparrow", also mentioned on this episode, is a great reminder of the value each soul has in the kingdom of God, no matter what side of the tracks you're from. Reference made at about the 15 minute mark on this church's YouTube episode: https://www.youtube.com/live/4OYIIkUV-F4?si=X8_zbRHb7ZghqYc9

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The Veranda Ministries truly knows that every caregiver is desperate for any single sign of hope and joy regarding their loved one’s dismal future of a dementia diagnosis. Telling their stories is one way to ensure a message of optimism and encouragement is paramount to everyone. For a loved one whose world is collapsing, this is the best therapy — telling the truth about the disease but loving the individual more, no matter what stage.

Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and Sue Duffield share personal stories of family along with clients of Veranda Ministries. And while culturally, what isn’t as frequently discussed – if at all – are the bright and deeply emotional experiences of dementia. It’s a challenging disease, often destroying families. Socialization is one, if not THE most important way you can help a loved one. Many family members are fearful and not very comfortable around their family member with dementia, and as a result, tend to stop visits or even abandon them altogether. It’s important to continue finding ways to help them feel loved and socially connected. It doesn’t always have to be all bad.

www.verandaministries.org