Grieving Change in Loved Ones with Dementia: “But I do want to say, even though I talk about having a strength-based approach, you do get to grieve that you are losing part of your loved one. So, someone who is living with dementia, I know it’s easier said than done to always focus on the positive. And I just want families to understand that it is valid that you may realize that maybe you’re celebrating holidays this year with kind of a different person than you did last year. Your loved one is changing, and it’s okay to react to those changes.” ~ Dr. Elain EsgbaughTitle: Empowering Dementia Care: A Conversation with Dr. Elaine EshbaughWelcome to another episode of Life Happens with Kim Hegwood, where Texans come to protect their Legacy and prepare for the second half of life. In this episode, Kim Hegwood is joined by Dr. Elaine Eshbaugh, a renowned professor of gerontology and Family studies, to dive deep into the topic of empowering dementia care.Together, they explore what it truly means to adopt a strengths-based approach—focusing on the abilities that remain rather than what’s been lost. Dr. Elaine Eshbaugh shares insight into her innovative Dementia Simulation House, an immersive experience at the University of Northern Iowa designed to help caregivers, professionals, and even everyday community members better understand the challenges faced by those living with dementia.You’ll hear practical advice about validation Therapy, the importance of meeting people with dementia where they are, and why humor and connection can be essential tools for caregivers. Whether you’re a family member, a professional, or simply someone who wants to build a more dementia-friendly community, this conversation is loaded with Wisdom, practical strategies, and heartfelt stories. Tune in and discover how embracing change and finding joy—even in the toughest moments—can empower everyone touched by dementia.How to Contact elaineeshbaugh.org, [email protected]:Dr. Elaine Eshbaugh is a professor of Gerontology and Family Studies and has coordinated the Gerontology program at the University of Northern Iowa since 2007. She earned her MS and PhD from Iowa State University. She founded UNI’s Dementia Simulation House in 2022 and now serves as its director. She frequently speaks about dementia and enjoys training groups to be more dementia-friendly. She has been published in research journals such as the Journal of Community Health Nursing, Gerontology & Geriatrics Education, and the Journal of Community Psychology. Dr. Eshbaugh has more than 30 research publications in empirical journals and has presented at regional, national, and international research conferences.She teaches courses such as Families, Alzheimer’s & Related Dementias, Research Methods, Family Relationships, and Psychology of Aging. She has collaborated and consulted with various healthcare organizations, social service agencies, continuing care communities, adult day services, and hospices._______________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://www.yourlegacylegalcare.com/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@YourLegacyLegalCareInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/
