Show notes
Summary In this episode of Inspired Caring, host Michele Magner engages in a heartfelt conversation with guests Brenda Freed and Alder Allensworth, both experts in music therapy and dementia care. The discussion centers around the challenges faced by families dealing with Alzheimer's disease, particularly how to communicate the complexities of the illness to children. Alder shares her personal experience as a caregiver for her mother with Alzheimer's, highlighting the emotional toll it takes on families. The trio emphasizes the importance of creating resources that help children understand dementia, fostering empathy and compassion in the younger generation. They introduce their innovative program, 'Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's,' which includes educational videos, a picture book, and song designed to make the topic accessible and relatable for children.KeywordsAlzheimer's, dementia, caregiving, music therapy, children education, empathy, family support, Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's, caregiver resources, sandwich generationTakeaways"I found myself as a sandwich generation caregiver.""We wanted to change that scenario.""Children can learn so you can teach and educate the child.""It's important to be honest with it and it's out there as part of the family.""These are universal skills that every family can benefit from."Sound bites"I found myself as a sandwich generation caregiver.""We wanted to meet people where they're at.""The child can learn so you can teach and educate the child."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Dementia and Caregiving03:53 Personal Experiences with Alzheimer's06:45 Creating Educational Resources for Children10:09 The Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's Program13:00 Understanding Alzheimer's Through Videos15:55 Incorporating Children in Caregiving18:48 The Importance of Communication and Honesty22:07 Social Implications of Educating Children25:06 The Unique Picture Book and Its Benefits28:01 Life Skills and Compassion Through Caregiving30:56 Final Thoughts for Caregivers47:01 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3Mackenzie Meets Alzheimer's Disease Picture bookSong on YouTubeEmail: [email protected]@Mackenziemeetsalzehimers on FB, Instagram, YouTube,LinkedInAlder Playlist: The Beatles, Motown, AbbaBrenda: Ellis, Jamie Harris, Michael O’Connor, Mary GaucheDying and Death singer songwriters: Tommy Byrd (Byrd and Street), FrankGilliganInspired Caring is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is also offered as an annual membership to businesses to provide for the families they work with.Connect with Michele Magner:WebsiteE-mailInstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeCustom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.