This enjoyable and spontaneous episode tells the ages-long story of how three very different women can be blessed to share the same bond, banter and beliefs. Debra Talley, Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and Sue Duffield understand the meaning of significance and purpose in their mature years, but none of that happens without humor and the joy of not taking themselves seriously! The one commonality that they all have is a desire to make a difference in the dementia world.  Also shared on this episode is The Veranda's Annual "A Christmas To Remember" - a benefit concert and Marketplace, taking place at Three Oaks Church, Gallatin, TN on Monday evening, December 2nd, 2025 with doors opening at 5pm. For tickets, get on www.verandaministries.org

This ENCORE episode features host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and Teepa Snow, discussing honestly about hospice and dementia. Teepa's "The Positive Approach to Care" (PAC) is by far the greatest influence for Mary Anne's vision and work-ethic, otherwise known as "The Veranda Ministries." www.verandaministries.org

This is part two continuing with the true story about a remarkable man Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly cared for, for almost two years. She briefly discussed him in episode 62, finishing the story today. Randy’s sad journey and experience into a geriatric psych unit is not rare. Mary Anne has a large box of files documented with stories just like Randy's. Some geri psych units have good outcomes, but "good" has not been the Veranda's experience with their clients in some geri psych programs.  Better skills through "Relationship-Based Care" and training to combat behaviors is the right thing to do. Residents of Tennessee need to stand up for those dying of inappropriate care, especially in the field of dementia care. www.verandaministries.org

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.   www.verandaministries.org

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 www.verandaministries.org

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

Host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and producer, Sue Duffield revisit the amazing and healing story of one of Mary Anne's exceptional clients, Martha. It was Martha's dignity that was challenged with incontinence, but to the quick thinking of those around her, she was spared the horror of the embarrassment of losing bodily functions in a public place. One day you may find that someone you care about — a spouse, parent, relative, or close friend — needs help negotiating the very simple daily tasks of life. Perhaps that day has already come. There is so much to learn here in this episode. Caregivers worldwide deal with this kind of thing every day. But understanding that the loved one with a cognitive disability is always forefront, doing whatever it takes to make them comfortable, even using a brand new coat to cover and protect the new seat in a truck, is quite okay. www.theverandaministries.org  

This episode starts out chaotic, fun, frivolous and hilarious - talking carrot cake and nudist camps - all in the same breath! Host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and producer Sue Duffield, take the rabbit trail down that crazy path of spilled medicine caplets, Mark Lowry's giant custom pill box container, to even talking (as friends do) about the dilemma of knowing whether or not you're taking the right pill at the right time, or if you took it at all, for that matter!  Also discussed on this episode is Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) that is recently becoming the "go to" therapy in treatment-resistant depression, or those with dementia and compromised brain health. The safety, however, of ECT has been consistently questioned, particularly among elderly patients with cognitive impairment. Mary Anne greatly questions the use of this kind of therapy with dementia patients and has seen personally the "not so good" results. The Veranda Ministries is a compassionate oasis allowing caregivers to entrust their loved ones with care on a daily basis. And so is the heart of this podcast, to "do the right thing, for the right reason."  www.theverandaministries.org

Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and her sidekick-producer Sue Duffield, take this episode down a memory lane right from the start. The one thing that stands out the most is not only their reminiscent ways reliving the corner drug store experience, but also the difficulty of navigating the larger box store pharmacies, especially for the elderly.  With an average of 11,000 people turning 65-years-old every single day, understanding and meeting the diversified needs of a new generation of older adults has never been more important, especially with medication and pharmacies. The desire for specialty pharmacies plays a critical role engaging with these older patients, but only if they are able to completely understand this generation’s needs, changing their preconceived notions about aging, and delivering services that are designed to meet them where they are. Bottom line: We need a community-driven, caring experience for all those in the aging population, especially when it comes to medication. As Mary Anne says, "We're making it too hard to be kind." www.verandaministries.org mailto:[email protected] Thursday Night 7pm - July 18th, 2024 Veranda Ministries Benefit with Mark Lowry, Hillcrest Baptist Church,621 Hartsville Pike, Lebanon, TN37087    

Episode 56 is a continuation from previous episode 55 (Unmerited Favor: A Daughter's Love Caring for Both Parents with Dementia) with Mary Gail Anderson, an adult child of two parents suffering with dementia and Parkinson's. This is caregiving to the absolute ultimate. Her exact words, when dealing with the medical professionals are, "question everything." Seriously, question everything. As someone ages with dementia-like diseases and/or Parkinson's, their health appears to deteriorate in a way that can seem slow at first. It's as if they are inching toward a cliff — and when they fall off, they find themselves on another health cliff, and another, and another. With each cliff, it gets more difficult for a family member to catch them.  Mary Gail's compelling story hopes to encourage all caregivers to constantly do in-depth research when it comes to medical care for their loved ones. www.verandaministries.org

People with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias are usually cared for by family members or friends. The majority of people with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias receive care in their homes. Each year, more than 16 million Americans provide more than 17 billion hours of unpaid care for family and friends with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.  In 2023, these caregivers provided an estimated 18.5 billion hours of care. Approximately two-thirds of dementia caregivers are women, about one in three caregivers is age 65 or older, and approximately one-quarter of dementia caregivers are the “sandwich generation” caregivers, meaning that they care not only for an aging parent, but also for children under age 18.  ...And then there's Mary Gail. This episode will uncover the enormous level of grace and mercy that Mary Gail gave in caregiving for her parents. You will cry; you will laugh; and mostly, you'll be shocked at how benevolent and merciful this daughter of two parents is, serving and doing what she believed to be "the right thing to do." This is part one... Part two is coming in the next episode. www.verandaministries.org

An exceptional and informative episode with guest, Anna Marie Adams (Certified End-of-Life Doula and founder of the International Doula Life Movement) will encourage all caregivers to realize the value of the extensive care a doula can bring to every member of a family. Host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and Anna understand the impact of helping thousands of families during their most critical times when dementia and death happens with their loved ones. Questions answered during this episode are: What does it mean to be an End-of-Life doula? What are some of the ways to work through obstacles of helping families and their communities? And what are the top three important characteristics of relationship-based care when it comes to end-of-life? Anna's goal is to ensure that every person in her care receives the comfort, dignity, and respect they deserve during this most sacred transition called death. www.theverandaministries.org www.internationaldoulalifemovement.com    

Sue Duffield, producer of the Aging Angst and Alleuias Podcast as well as newly appointed board member of the Veranda Ministries, takes her frivolity on-location broadcasting to one of the biggest days on the Veranda Calendar - Derby Day! Imagine staff and volunteers using wheeled walkers with inflated horses' heads attached, racing on the parking lot, creating howling applause and laughter by all attendees, especially those with dementia! This was a day filled with hee-haw-like joy, and this episode just gives a small glimpse into the world of dementia and the desperate need for those with cognitive impairment to have a day to be normal. As Barbara, one of the precious clients of the Veranda, says at the very end, "It's good for my brain. I love coming here." www.theverandaministries.org

Host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly is definitely “The Keeper of Their Stories”. This realm and reality of her clients and the family of caregivers with dementia, enhances the dignity of physical hygiene and bathing to the understanding of routine. Dementia care is never an excuse for mistreatment or disrespect. Mary Anne is also a clinician on the road, taking her workshops and speaking to places like Lipscomb University, Welch College and also the Timesavers’ Proactive Aging Event at Southern Kentucky University’s WCPL Memory Café. Mary Anne’s visionary force of encouraging “on-the-road” facilitating has her experiencing many young people’s interest in relationship based care and the value of education and training in the ProActive aging field. Coming soon is a brand new video featuring the stories and people behind those stories from the Veranda Ministries. For more information get on www.verandaministries.org Other resources worth visiting: www.dementiaminds.org and www.sokyhappenings.com/2024/03/timesavers-announces-proactive-aging-series-event/

Sometimes dealing with dementia and the end-of-life process can be as clear as mud. But today’s guest, Helen Bauer, comes as an expert in hospice care with exceptional detail that every care-partner needs. You’ll hear phrases like “senile degeneration of the brain” and “the difficulty in assessing someone with dementia at end-of-life with only a snap chat” and “the importance of education and mutual understanding of grief.” All this, and a whole lot more, during this episode includes the value of “touch, gentleness, respect and how the patient is spoken to." This is the personhood and perspective of Helen Bauer. Helen Bauer, BSN RN CHPN, End of Life Educator and Advocate (The Heart of Hospice, LLC) has worked in nursing for over 30 years, specializing in hospice and end-of-life care since 2009. She is a Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Registered Nurse with a background in compliance and consulting. As owner of The Heart of Hospice, she provides end-of-life education and consulting for services for both hospice providers and consumers. The Heart of Hospice Podcast is in its eighth season as a high-ranking international podcast, heard on many networks. More about Helen Bauer: www.theheartofhospice.com www.theheartofhospice.com/podcast www.theheartofhospice.com/services www.theverandaministries.org    

It’s not unusual to have difficulty finding the right word or remembering where you put things. But persistent problems with memory or the ability to perform everyday tasks might be signs of something more serious. An "Early Onset of Dementia" or "Mild Cognitive Impairment" diagnosis can be a sudden blow to any family. In this case and on this episode, gospel musician, Josh Singletary, shares about his Mom with a recent diagnosis of dementia. His honesty of the unknown road ahead makes this a vulnerable story of a family trying to pull together for their loved one.  Josh’s love for his Mom, his knowledge of music and faith in the Lord and his family's desire to walk this unknown territory with their eyes wide open, is encouraging for any family walking this dementia journey.   www.verandaministries.org www.joshsingletary.com

This episode with guest, Gay Gingrich, RN, BSN, and host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly, shares how both women met through their studies with Teepa Snow's “Positive Approach to Care.” The discussion begins with two new friends with shared interests and passion for those with dementia as well as Gay’s obvious love of her work as a Geriatric Psych Nurse.   Gay’s approach to caring for those living with dementia is that of relationships, compassion, and a different perspective of care. She discusses how she believes it’s a better approach when these principles are adhered to. Gay’s faith is of utmost importance to her daily walk and the care given to her patients. It's an unwavering belief that there is a better more compassionate way to care for and give hope to families along with those living with dementia. There is a much better way to help those with no voice in today’s society. We must all come together and seek that better way.  www.verandaministries.org

Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly's mother's homegoing happened on a Leap Year. As with any family losing a loved one, the anniversary of that loved one's death comes in a tsunami-like wave of great proportion each year. But February 29th only happens every four years, and obviously, it can make the intensity of the weight of grief even more difficult.  Take a drive "across that Memphis Bridge" with Mary Anne as she revisits the most difficult days of her life. She shares how the broken system of her parents' care throttles her passion in offering hope for caregivers by fascillitating The Veranda Ministries respite program for those with dementia and Alzheimer's. Supportive friends and family, along with your own quality of health and well-being, can play a role in how grief impacts you following bereavement. It’s important to know that there are healthy ways to cope with grief. Life may never be quite the same again, but honoring your loved one on those anniversaries can bring hope and optimism as you move forward with your life. www.verandaministries.org

Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly's guest is Brenda Powers, a registered nurse specializing in geriatric care, with a strong focus on supporting the aging population, especially those with dementia. Brenda has actively contributed enhancing geriatric care through workforce development panels, aiding in devloping dementia education programs like the Vanderbilt Nurse Practitioner School and participating on boards dedicated to the health care improvement within the aging community. This episode is a difficult reality to hear, speciifically addressing the truth about unment needs and the use of medications for those living with dementia. Families of demetia loved ones need to heed and be aware. Practical, insightful and filled with hands-on advocacy, this episode is just the beginning of the dialogue between Brenda and Mary Anne. www.verandaministries.org

Episode 46 from the #agingangstandalleluiaspodcast, featuring host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and Teepa Snow, is a candid and vulnerably honest dialogue about hospice and dementia. The hunger for knowledge to help others began with Mary Anne's desire to experience Teepa and The Positive Approach to Care (PAC) Team, bringing it to fruition, for without this team, there would be no Veranda Ministries. www.verandaministries.org

With relationship-based approach for individuals with dementia, human touch plays an important role in promoting overall well-being. There's nothing quite like a hug or holding hands to promote a physical relaxation response. It's known to reduce levels of cortisol, a hormone released during times of stress. And there's no difference between those with or without dementia in that response. The Veranda Ministries offers caregivers the role of "Second Family", as each day, clients are treated with great care and personal attention. When one of the Veranda "chosen" passes on, it's not unlikely that the remaining friends and staff also go through their own kind of grief. Much like Miss Jane, Yvonne and Ricky, you will hear the heart-felt journey that each one took, as Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly tells their moving stories.  Caregivers need aftercare too. www.theverandaministries.org

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 Full Chevy Commercial: https://youtu.be/xnZGEUA4oBk?si=MHacY4Jar9Q4xU0B

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.”  

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

A very difficult episode, but one that surely needs to be told. This situation is one family's struggle with when their loved ones need care in a community setting.  It's a hard decision. The word placement strikes fear in their hearts for many reasons. Since the recording of this episode, the Colonel, as you’ll hear about, passed away within a few weeks of his placement. To be honest, there are thousands in this country with the same outcome. This is the tragedy of a healthcare system that gives little to no hope or direction when treatment is administered to someone with dementia. There has to be a better way than the massive amounts of medications to “combat bad behaviors and agitation.”  People living with dementia and dying from massive amounts of drugs not indicated for dementia need to stop. We need more voices to advocate for those with no voice. It's simply out of hand. This podcast episode makes no apologies for the blunt honest reaction to a system gone bad. It was literally “from dancing to dying”, in less than thirty days for the Colonel. www.theverandaministries.org

This is part two of Anthony Facello's difficult story. The value of having a POA (power of attorney) is of utmost in any family with a loved one. And if that loved one is suffering from dementia and is a mother of an only child, it's even more imperative. What makes Anthony's story even more tragic is the abuse his mother received from her second husband.  Making things worse, the cocktail of meds that were given to Anthony's mother, sent her to a tragic end, when indeed it didn't have to be that way. Sadly, it's not unusual in the realm of care for those with dementia. His mother wasn't afraid to die, and thankfully Anthony knew that his mother was dying. That was obvious. It was the goodbye that was the worst part. Thankfully, host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly walked alongside Anthony with counsel and guidance during his most desperate of times. Listen to the heartache of a family caught up in a broken system, a relationship that on any given day was intense, and a son who found himself in that broken system trying to help find peace for his mom and himself. www.theverandaministries.org

Medicare’s hospice regulations are not working as intended for many people with dementia, says many experts of end-of-life care. The "long goodbye", the phrase Barbara Karnes describes about hospice patients with dementia, is, for the medical profession, a difficult diagnosis. About 5 percent are pulled from hospice when their condition seems to have stabilized. Plus, the number of Americans over 65 with dementia is projected to more than double to 13.8 million by 2060. Many will need hospice care. Host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly, and producer, Sue Duffield, take great strides on this episode to discuss the hard facts and difficulties that surmount when a loved one with Alzheimer's or dementia needs hospice care.  www.theverandaministries.org

The Talley family's love and compassion for their parents and grandparents will bring sincere joy, levity and hope for families who take on this great calling called "care partnering." Gospel singer/songwriter, Lauren Talley, along with her Uncle Kirk Talley (also a singer/songwriter), shares on this episode that through thick and thin, family always comes first.  Even throughout their former road life together as a family with extensive touring and concert appearances, the Talleys (including Roger and Debra) managed to be creative with their care for their loved ones at home with dementia. Host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly, expresses the privilege and honor it was in helping this family's journey during some of the most difficult of times. But the best part of this episode is the hilariously true stories that are like a salve to the soul. Laughing WITH your family during the tough times, is and will always be a thorough and amazing way to healing. Care partners will identify with the hope and joviality that the Talley family convey, as they share the aspect of joy in the journey of dementia.  www.theverandaministries.org www.laurentalley.com

It’s a known fact that the elderly and especially those with dementia or Alzheimers respond positively to the music that was part of their world for most of their lives. Today’s episode features two friends of host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly, who have a long and productive history in southern gospel music. Danny Jones is vice president of The Singing News and Billy Blackwood is a singer/songwriter and son of the legendary James Blackwood and the Blackwood Brothers Quartet. Both hilarious and honest is the tri-alogue between these friends, who take gospel music and the hymns of the church seriously. They know the impact it makes on the aging.  www.theverandaministries.org

This episode shows the extraordinary love of a son for his mother with dementia. Host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly's part of this story was in previous episode 25. This is a heart-felt perspective and cry from that son, Anthony Facello  Being a caregiver for a parent is never easy, especially if you are younger and thrown into a broken system that makes no sense in treating those with dementia. It’s taken a few months for Anthony to share his journey but if your loved one has dementia, you will definitely relate and benefit from his story of redemption for his "mama", as Anthony so affectionately calls her. That unseen hand of miracles guided Anthony through Mary Anne and a nun from Oklahoma, to a basement hospice full of compassion and mercy called "The Heart of Mary House" in Nashville, TN. www.theverandaministries.org  

Maybe one day, the medical profession will understand and improve the quality of the pieces of the puzzle of dementia. For now, though, the research and emphasis are more about dealing with the symptoms than addressing the cause and management of dementia.  Why can we not do more training and improvements with the medical communities' skillset? Many questions need to be addressed.    Host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and producer Sue Duffield share the discrepancies and difficulties of a recent family's despair in treating and diagnosing their loved one. You'll feel their anger, shock, and broken hearts due to a short stay in a Geriatric Psychiatric Facility administering a cocktail of medications. The result was life-threatening and a debilitating brain bleed. Now, the family is facing one of life’s hardest decisions.     Due to a recent FDA ruling that approved a new medication for agitation for those living with dementia, many experts in the field of dementia are shaking their heads. Why? Because the FDA did not lift the “Black Box Warning" for those living with dementia. This episode will give viewers an insight into this new drug, Rexulti.    Counseling and fighting for families has been and will always be the heart of Mary Anne and The Veranda Ministries in Gallatin, TN. Human beings with dementia are just as valuable and important as anyone. There has to be a better way... People's lives are counting on it.    www.verandaministries.org    

Host, Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and producer, Sue Duffield come right out of the starting gate discussing the hilarity of being hacked and cloned on Facebook! Plus an update on Mary Anne's client whose charges were dropped after being arrested - is a great story with a compassionate ending. There's still the on-going struggle with those who have dementia, and how the system treats these individuals when they make mistakes, but thankfully, the officials in Sumner County, Tennessee, returned dignity to the person and their family. "When a family's back is against the wall while dealing with caregiving, there's no doubt that we make it way too hard", Mary Anne shares. "You don't need a PhD to be kind." Advocacy for yourself also in the medical system is a struggle in of itself without dementia, let alone with it.  The 2023 Sumner County Caregivers Conference will be Aug. 4th, 2023 at Rehoboth United Methodist Church in Gallatin, TN. For more information, get on www.verandaministries.org

There’s a lot we can learn from the palliative care movement: it considers death as meaningful and dying as a stage of life to be valued, supported and lived. Welcoming mortality might actually help us live better lives and support communities — rather than relying on medical systems — to care for people at the end of their lives. And if you're new to the Aging Angst and Alleluias Podcast, be introduced to one of the most compassionate experts on aging and carepartnering in Middle Tennessee - host, Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly. Mary Anne's guest is Danny Jones, a 24-year veteran in Gospel Music and publisher and Editor in Chief of Singing News. During his tenure he has authored five barely successful books (his words!) that offer inside (and often humorous) looks at the world of Southern Gospel music. He is also the host of the 'Danny's Diary' podcast (www.singingnews.com/dannysdiary) and and also heard on Singing News Radio from 6 p.m. to midnight (CST) on Sunday nights. Discussed on this episode will include Danny's role as 'only son' to care for his aging parents, and more specifically his end-of-life journey with his mother in her final days. A compassionate, humorous and informative dialogue between Mary Anne and Danny is what makes this such a great listen. www.verandaministries.org

God has positioned Himself strategically in the hearts of three friends: One from Arkansas; one from East Tennessee, and one Jersey transplant to Middle Tennessee. And God's the ONLY one who knows the plans for these three! Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly, Debra Talley and Sue Duffield take the discussion and interaction to a new place, discussing the difficulties of aging, caregiving and the hope of significance in a world that cares little about the elderly. There are no earth-shattering revelations during this episode, but there sure are sincere connections and a humorous "tri-alogue" when it comes to preparing to be the best for those we care most about.  The Veranda will celebrate it's annual fundraiser, "Dunking for Dementia" on June 10th. Be sure to make your donation to sink some of the best in the tank, all for a great cause.  www.verandaministries.org

When the FDA gives approval for the first drug to be used for agitation (brexpiparazole) in Alzheimer's and dementia patients, there's also fair warning for the hidden side effects along with mortality risk. Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and Sue Duffield have an honest and informative discussion about the pros and cons of using this type of drug in a brain that has a disease, and not just depression. The use of the word "Care Partner" is also described, as families, professionals and the medical profession try and should work together to do what's best for the person with dementia or Alzheimer's. Mary Anne reads directly from the press release from the agency as to the indications, dosage, and side effects of this approved medication. This is not new information, but it is a first for this drug's approval. Understanding your loved one's behavior, as a caregiver and care partner, could be the greatest therapy, instead of drugs that carry such risks. www.verandaministries.org

With twenty-six years experience as a nurse and nurse practitioner, Crystal Yokley received her BSN at Cumberland University in Lebanon, TN and her MSN at Western Kentucky University. She worked in hospitals and clinics with a wide range from Med-Surg Cardiology, Pediatrics, women's health, family health occupational med and acute care. She has recently announced the opening of Pinnacle Family Practice, 650 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN. The conversation between host, Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly, producer, Sue Duffield, and Crystal, is a caring exchange of cumulative knowledge and experience. It also shows the desire Crystal has to know and understand dementia care along with healthful habits and its benefits within her practice. A timely friendship, both professional and personal, has evolved between Mary Anne and Crystal at just the right time. www.verandaministries.org

On previous episode number 28, "Markers of the Heart" touched on the truth about advocating for ourselves. This week's episode number 29 continues with that topic as Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and Sue Duffield discuss how to support and advocate for those living with dementia and the aging population. As usual, something always sparks Mary Anne's desire to share the truth with honest concern of life lessons she has learned in her advocacy journey. This week is no exception. Discussion includes Mary Anne's new diagnosis of "non-specified dementia" and also the arrest of a gentleman with FTD and that family's horrific journey. It's very obvious that this culture needs better understanding for those living with dementia. Most of all, the realization is vital to find ways to advocate for our loved one's health, as well as our own. The end of this episode shows a little levity that always seems to work its way into the dialogue between Mary Anne and Sue. It's sort of like a therapeutic release so desperately needed when talking about some of the most difficult realities of aging. www.verandaministries.org

Today's guest, Richard Patterson, is a husband and father of two children and also the owner and administrator of Preferred Care at Home of North Nashville, Sumner, and East Wilson Counties in Middle Tennessee. Richard's first opportunity to work with seniors was at the age of 14 when he worked through high school at an assisted living facility. Richard's love for that job began as serving and connecting with residents, giving him purpose and value during those sometimes uncertain teenage years.  Host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and Richard take the time on this episode to express their heart-felt sentiments, their struggle and their likeness of compassion as they both give great service to the aging population and their caregivers. Richard’s company, Preferred Care at Home, has many awards in the in-home care field. He and his team make it their utmost mission to provide excellence in care for families, and especially to those who require hands-on care daily. It is truly beyond the business of caregiving. https://preferhome.com/locations/davidson-and-sumner-counties/meet-the-team 615-319-3055 www.verandaministries.org  

This week's episode is honestly one that Mary Anne never dreamed she would record on the “Aging, Angst & Alleluias Podcast.” As an advocate for those living with dementia and their families, Mary Anne suddenly experienced a heart attack and immediately became an advocate for herself and for her own brain. This was a tough job especially when there were so many physicians counseling her on what to do.  From the first plan of care until that dismal day from the hospital, every tool Mary Anne had in her toolbox was used, and she was grateful for the knowledge attained through the years on brain and cardiac health.  Mary Anne's goal for this episode is: Be prepared for the journey ahead. Know what you want and how you want it. Make decisions that you can live with, and most of all - learn how to be your own best advocate. Be proactive with the care you will want and need, especially when or if death is possible. As Mary Anne's attorney says, "It's never too late until it's too late." www.verandaministries.org  

This week's episode is part two of episode 25 of the Aging, Angst & Alleluias Podcast “A Dementia Doula’s Blessing from the Basement.”  Experience the “alleluias" from that nine-day stay in the basement for host, Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly's special friend, Diane. This is a resource of magnitude for those living with dementia and those at the end of life. Kim Derrick, Founder and Director of The Heart of Mary House in Nashville, TN. shares her exceptional story with a happy ending about her mission to help those at the end of life find a peaceful, loving environment to make their sacred passage.  Her mission in life as a hospice nurse led her to find a different approach to caring for those who had nowhere else to turn. Kim's heart, her care and her mission is truly comforting and compassionate for her patients and their loved ones. The Heart of Mary House is changing how end of life looks for those in desperate need, coming from a simple oasis in a cinder-block basement.  www.heartofmaryhouse.org www.verandaministries.org    

This compassionate episode is about a woman who Mary Anne grew to love and yet never heard speak her name. It’s about a broken medical system that truly left this woman completely desperate and at death's door. Yet, when all options were completely exhausted, a simple basement full of love in Nashville Tennessee was sent via a special friend in Oklahoma.  Though the basement is simple, the love of Christ oozes out of every cinder block in those three large rooms. Mary Anne describes how she sees the hands and feet of Christ from the moment she walks in. He is there. The heart of heaven resides in that small basement on Thompson Lane.  This Dementia Doula is forever changed and honored to have cared for this special friend and her family. Life and death will never look the same way again. In those final nine days, even in death, Mary Anne's friend showed her what life is truly about. This is what genuine compassion looks like. This old song says it best: “ What the world needs now is love, sweet love That's the only thing that there’s just too little of..." Except for a small basement on Thompson Lane in Nashville, it's full of that love!   www.heartofmaryhouse.org www.theverandaministries.org

Today's conversation with Barbara Karnes is to announce her new book, "By Your Side," (A Guide for Caring for the Dying at Home) and the discussion of how vital End of Life Doula and Dementia Doula work is becoming in our society. Her new book is one of the best for family caregivers and since Barbara has been a family caregiver herself, her knowledge of Hospice and the experience in that field is exceptional.  Barbara Karnes, is an RN Award-Winning End of Life Educator, an Award-Winning Nurse, an NHPCO Hospice Innovator Award Winner 2018 and 2015 International Humanitarian Woman of the Year.  While at the bedside of hundreds of people during the dying process, this Hospice Pioneer noticed that each death followed a near-identical script. Each person went through the stages of death almost the same way and most families came to her with similar questions. These realizations led Barbara to write "Gone From My Sight, (The Little Blue Book), which changed the hospice industry.  "Gone From My Sight" also remains to be the most widely used patient/family educational booklet on the signs of approaching death. It has been in print continuously since 1985 and has sold over 35 million copies worldwide. With its publication and distribution, Barbara created one of the essential tools in the end-of-life movement today.  www.bkbooks.com www.verandaministries.org

The concept of "Dementia Doula" is somewhat new to the community of caregivers, but not new to compassionate expert, Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly. This episode is a celebration of this podcast's first year, but also an anticipatory view ahead into the lives of those who are becoming more aware of how quality end of life should look. With heartfelt truth and wisdom, the Veranda Ministries continues to open doors for families who so desperately need expert wisdom and tips on how to handle their mentally impaired loved ones. These quality minutes on this episode are merely a conversation between good friends (Sue Duffield, producer and host, Mary Anne) who continually support and bring to light the need for understanding and insight when the time comes to place a loved one in a dementia care facility. It's not easy, but knowledge through training and discernment gives the power to overcome a lot of what's ahead for every caregiver. Be sure to invest in the ministry of The Veranda, in Gallatin, TN. The Veranda Ministries is a 501(c)3 ministry. www.verandaministries.org  

Welcome to SEASON TWO! Last year (2022) was the Aging Angst & Alleluias pilot year, and what a successful one it was! For dementia, alzheimer's and caregiver interests, this podcast ranks in the high 10% of podcasts internationally of the same theme. To that, we are very proud. This #22 is a 2022 encore of a previously recorded episode with Barbara Karnes. Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and her guest, Barbara Karnes, get right to it from the beginnging, describing Barbara's iconic hospice guide “the little blue book”, Gone from My Sight. Barbara is an internationally respected speaker, educator, author, and thought leader on matters of end of life. She is a renowned authority on the dying process and a leading educator for families, healthcare professionals, and the community at large. Barbara's award winning DVDs and books about death and dying are changing lives - in this country and around the world. In her work, Barbara compassionately explains stages of the dying process, living with a life threatening illness, pain management, and how people grieve. She explains how important it is to take care of yourself as a caregiver and offers guidelines for professionals.  For more information on Barbara and her life as an American Hospice Pioneer, plus her resource of materials, get on https://bkbooks.com/blogs/media www.verandaministries.org

This week’s episode "A Caregiver's Christmas" is all about finding joy in the journey, even during the holiday season.  Our team’s desire is to help families find peace and comfort during Christmas. We also desire as always to help those living with dementia have the best holiday possible. Today's special guest is Mary Anne's friend, mentor, and the one that keeps her grounded, Toni Joleen Clay. Toni is on her fifth experience as a caregiver. She will be the first to tell you that the education as a counselor along with her studies at Johns Hopkins could not prepare her for the intense journey ahead. Yet, she finds great joy in serving those she loves. After all, is that not what we are supposed to do? This episode will help all of you who care for your loved ones during this holiday season. Our prayer is that it will make you laugh and feel the joy of this season. We thank all of you who have taken the time to listen, experience and enjoy this podcast this year. May you all have a wonderful Christmas. www.theverandaministries.org

What could be better on this twentieth episode of “Aging Angst and Alleluias” Podcast than to have the guest of the first episode discuss thankfulness and the pure joy of this holiday season? Today’s special guest is Debra Talley, but wait, not only is Deb the guest, but the producer of the podcast, Sue Duffield, is guest number two.  Let’s just say this - get ready, folks.  This episode 20 will discuss how God brought three women together for a cause near and dear to all three.  Listen as they talk about aging, dementia, music and The Veranda’s upcoming event on Tuesday, November 29th 2022. You will laugh, maybe cry, and most all realize there is life after 60!  If you are a caregiver and feeling a little blue during this holiday season, these three special friends are sure to bring you the gift of joy.  www.verandaministries.org

Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly's guest, Katlyn G. Clifton, developed a business model for aging care with a social work perspective. Her dream was realized through a series of life-long community and familial experiences while caring for the aging, developing chaplaincy and counsel, and also studying and understanding grief care. Her website puts two ideas together (Gerontology and Doula) to form a holistic practice that focuses on each step of the aging process - www.gerodoula.com You will enjoy this candid and raw interview between two friends who have such a heart for making a difference in the lives of the aging community.

It's a known fact that singing and music therapy can be used as a treatment for the improvement of cognitive function in people with dementia. On a basic level, songs, hymns and interactive music connect in ways that can't always be explained. Special guest, Dave Clark, a prominent songwriter and storyteller, shares his heart on this episode about his experience within his family navigating Alzheimers. You will love his story of "Alice and Bill" and the song he crafted for his family. Listen here on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LVeBvU7KfvM Dave says every song has a story and well-known artists like Rascal Flatts, Larnelle Harris, Sandi Patty, Steve Green, 4HIM, Al Denson, Point of Grace, Phillips, Craig & Dean, Glen Campbell, Donny Osmond, CeCe Winans, Michael Crawford, The Martins, and others - know the power of his songs and lyrics. But his most heart-felt quote says it all, "Although I don't write many story songs, nearly every song has a story. I am in the process of writing them down so my kids will have them." For those suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's, story set to music can be incredibly healing not only for the loved one, but also for the caregiving family. www.daveclarkwrites.com www.verandaministries.org