9. The Power of Reframing Your Caregiving Story with Ron Beleno

Send us Fan MailRon Beleno is an active advocate for dementia, caregiving, aging and research communities.  From lived experience, he encourages others to transform the challenging caregiving journey into one of growth and resilience through his innovative approach to narrative reframing and community building. In caring for his father who had Alzheimer's for over ten years, Ron shares practical strategies that changed his perspective and improved quality of life for his entire family.  Key points discussed:• Reframing problems as challenges creates a mindset focused on solutions rather than obstacles• Over 60% of people with dementia will go missing at least once – simple strategies like door chimes and community networks can significantly reduce risks• Building a support network by sharing your story with local businesses and neighbours creates a safety net for loved ones with dementia• Men often struggle to identify as caregivers and typically seek help much later than women• Eliminating words like "good/bad" and "right/wrong" when reflecting on caregiving decisions can significantly reduce caregiver guilt• The narrative we tell ourselves about our caregiving experience profoundly influences how we navigate challenges• Approaching caregiving with a "gamer" mindset helps identify creative solutions to complex problemsRon is an active member, advisor, and mentor to numerous organizations and educational institutions such as AGE-WELL NCE, Centre for Aging and Brain Health Innovation (CABHI) at Baycrest, City of Toronto's Seniors Strategy, SE Health (formerly known as Saint Elizabeth Health Care) and the Translational Research Program (TRP) at the University of Toronto's Faculty of Medicine.To learn more, please reach out to Ron.Thank you for listening!Do you have a question or a topic related to "capturing essence for care" that you would like discussed on the podcast?  Email:  [email protected] use the "Send us Fan Mail" link at the top of the Episode Description to text the show!Interested in learning more?  Check out my Etsy ShopVisit my YouTube channel or websiteIntro and outro music with thanks:  Upbeat and Sweet No Strings by Musictown Lisa brings over 25 years of experience working in healthcare settings with older adults. The perspectives shared on this podcast are her own and do not represent the views of any past or current employer. Patient/resident stories are shared only with explicit permission or as anonymized composites for educational purposes.