Shaping The Future of Aging- The Eden Alternative Podcast

Person-first language is essential to honoring individuals who accept support from others. In this podcast, Jessica discusses how person-first language is just as crucial in our interactions with one another as members of the care partner team. The words we choose affect not only our assumptions and beliefs about the work we do but also our relationships with teammates, our value to the team, and our sense of belonging. Language shapes the culture within an organization, which in turn influences whether employees choose to stay or leave. Tune in to learn how to make intentional language choices as a leader and teammate - it truly makes a difference! 

For more than 25 years, the Sherbrooke Community Centre and Central Haven Special Care Home, in Saskatoon, SK, have been on a thoughtful journey—reimagining the words we use and the impact they have on the people around us. In this episode, you’ll hear heartfelt stories and practical insights from Kim Schmidt, Deb Schick, Eric Anderson, and Cheryl George as they share what they’ve learned along the way. Together, they explore language through a lens of abundance and normalcy, showing how small shifts in words can create big shifts in culture. You’ll discover some of their “prickly words” and how they’ve made changing language an engaging experience—one that everyone can take part in and benefit from. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the power of words and the communities they help shape. 

How do you shift the language across multiple care communities? This team would say ‘one word at a time and build from there.’ Tune in to hear the story of how Connecting Care Communities came together, using the Eden Approach®, and identified language that helped them create true home with the Elders (residents). As you will hear from Lisa, Mary Lou, and Sarah, the process is not always easy, but the outcomes are well worth the effort for both the employee and Elder care partners. 

In this episode of Shaping the Future of Aging, we explore Compassionate Communication and why it sits at the heart of meaningful relationships in eldercare and beyond. Joined by Rebecca Hubbard, we unpack how observing without judgment, naming needs, and listening with empathy can transform even the most difficult conversations into moments of connection, psychological safety, and trust. Whether you’re supporting Elders, leading a care team, or navigating hard conversations at work or home, this episode offers practical insights for creating more human-centered, compassionate communities—one conversation at a time. For additional tools and resources, visit: www.bigowlinsight.com

This episode welcomes Jennifer Carson and Casey Venturini with the DEER project (The Dementia Engagement, Education, and Research Program) from the School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Reno. Tune in to hear about how language shapes our thinking, our actions, and our worlds and how that impacts the lives of people living with dementia. Language has the power to open and close doors whether it is spoken, written, or just thought. Words have the power to create positive disruption and reshape a person’s life experience. Language is constantly evolving and changing. It is through shared exploration that we find the language that makes a difference today. 

Carmen Bowman returns to Shaping the Future of Aging to talk about the power of language to change thinking and practice. Think about it. How often are labels (e.g., diabetic, wanderer, feeder, difficult) used to describe a person accepting your support? How often do we apply terms like therapy or program to something that is just a normal part of life so it feels more professional? Tune in to learn more about Carmen’s experience in exploring the use of language and how it can shift life experiences for those who live and work in homes or communities or houses (not facilities). During the call, Carmen mentions editorials she has in the journal Activities, Adaptation & Aging. Carmen also mentions the white paper The Power of Language to Create Culture, which is worth reading. 

This episode explores the powerful connection between language and person-directed care with guest Joan Devine. Together, we look at how everyday words shape culture, influence relationships, and either humanize or distance us from one another. You’ll walk away with practical, realistic shifts you can begin using today to create more dignity, connection, and meaning in your care community. 

In this episode, we explore the incredible power of language and how the words we choose can either build dignity or create barriers for people living with dementia. Mark Timmons from the Dementia Action Alliance joins us to share practical insights and personal stories about speaking in ways that uplift, connect, and honor the person. Tune in to discover simple shifts in language that can transform relationships, community, and care. 

What does it mean to age well? This is a question that Sandy Sabersky has explored in her own life. Then she asked herself, “What does it mean to age well and be living with dementia?” That started her on the path to creating Elderwise, a day program in the Seattle, Washington area. Elderwise focuses on the whole person and helping them to grow inwardly and outwardly. Cognitive loss does not change the essence of the person. In her journey with Elderwise, she has learned much about spirit-centered care and how to bring well-being into people’s lives. That experience has shaped how the day program flows in the Elderwise time zone. If you want to learn more, check out their website, Elderwise.org, or email Sandy at [email protected]. Sandy has also co-written a book, The Elderwise Way. 

What is an End-of-Life Doula and why is their work important? Join us for a conversation with Sandy Place, an End-of-Life Doula. Sandy brough these skills into the Eden community where she was the administrator. She shares stories about the difference this work made in the lives of Elders, their families, and the employees. She is now taking that experience and helping other organizations replicate these important efforts. During the conversation she will talk about INELDA, the International End-of-Life Doula Association (www.inelda.org), as the organization she received training through. If you would like to learn more after listening, you can contact Sandy at: [email protected]. 

The Denali Center has been committed to the Eden Approach® for over two decades now. What inspired them to get started? What has sustained them in continuing to grow? How has the Eden Approach evolved for them over the years? How has the Eden Approach shaped their culture and community? You will be amazed to hear the answers as Tina Whetstine and Jessica Aldabe share Denali Center’s story. Their story aligns perfectly with Eden Alternative Principle Nine: Building a collaborative and resilient culture is a never-ending process. We need to keep learning, developing, and adapting. Spoiler alert … they are doing all of this and more. Tune in to learn more! If you want to reach out and connect with the community, email Tina Whetstine at: [email protected]. 

This conversation with Daphne Johnston and Alison Smith will bring a smile to your face and joy to your heart. The name of the organization tells the story: Respite for All. Everyone is together and there is no differentiation. Through the podcast you will learn about the Respite for All model and their resources to help support and guide anyone who chooses to implement one in their community. Respite for All is about reclaiming joy. It is a 4-hour engagement opportunity that fills people’s hearts and provides them with purpose. The stories you will hear from Daphne and Alison are inspiring! The goal is to spread Respite for All across the country. Will you be a part of their efforts? 

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines ageism as the stereotypes (what we think), prejudice (what we feel), and discrimination (how we act) based on age, which can be directed towards oneself or others. Ageism is not just a US issue; it is a global issue. Ageism affects everyone's health and well-being. The first step to start combatting ageism is to be aware of when it shows up and get curious. Kyrie provides insights and examples that help us increase our awareness. And once you are aware, you need resources. Visit the Old School Age Equity hub (OldSchool.info) to equip yourself to combat ageism whenever it shows up!

Lori Seiders developed an interest in herbology as a part of her second wind in life. In this podcast she shares how her knowledge of herbs, and their varied uses, has evolved. As Lori says in the podcast, “Each herb is unique in how it nurtures the body, and it nurtures a body in different ways.” Herbology is also about more than how the herb affects the body. Herbology can be about the process of growing and harvesting the plants, alleviating helplessness. Herbology can be out the fragrances and flavors that they add to the environment and foods. Herbology can be about sharing stories of how people and culture have used herbs for various purposes, and in different ways, in their lives. Herbology is about strengthening physical health and well-being for all of us.

In this episode of Shaping the Future of Aging, Emily Connors sits down with Hannah and Tonja to explore how nursing homes can transform the way we honor elders at the end of life. Beyond routine rituals, their team has found meaningful ways to celebrate each person’s uniqueness, create space for shared grief, and strengthen community bonds. Listen in as they share practical strategies for involving residents, families, and care partners in remembrance, reflect on lessons learned, and discuss how small, thoughtful acts can make the end of life a time of love, connection, and celebration. Whether you work in long-term care or simply care about compassionate approaches to aging, this conversation will inspire you to think differently about grief, memory, and community. 

Volunteerism is not a ‘nice to have,’ it is essential! Listen in to this podcast to hear from Dr. Paul Falkowski, Founder and President of the National Association of Long-Term Care Volunteers (NALTCV). Learn how he got started as a volunteer, what he has learned in the last 30 years in that role, and how it has inspired him to grow volunteerism all across the country. You will hear anecdotal stories and research that demonstrate the emotional and physical benefits that volunteering brings to residents, their families, the volunteer, the employees and leaders of long-term care settings. The NALTCV has the resources you need to become a volunteer or to lay the foundation for a “wow” volunteer experience in your community.  

What happens when care teams let go of rigid routines and start saying “yes” to the moment? In this episode of the Eden Alternative podcast, we sit down with Gail Lancaster, who shares how bringing spontaneity into daily life has sparked connection, laughter, and renewed purpose in their community. From impromptu celebrations to unexpected acts of kindness, discover how creating space for the unplanned can lead to deeper relationships and a more vibrant care culture. Whether you're a leader, caregiver, or culture change advocate, this episode will inspire you to make room for the magic of the moment.   

Description: What if a simple song could unlock a person’s identity, joy, and connection to the world around them? In this episode, we explore the origin story of Music & Memory, a groundbreaking organization that has been reshaping dementia care since 2010. Justin shares how personalized music goes far beyond just entertainment—it's a powerful, evidence-based tool that helps reduce distress, boost mood, and spark meaningful engagement. We’ll dive into how care partners can uncover each person's musical history, why personalization matters so deeply, and what happens when someone living with dementia hears “their song” again. This episode will open your heart—and your mind. Looking to create a personalized music playlist for someone at home? Visit musicandmemory.org to get started with a helpful tool. 

Description: The MRC Creekside team wanted to make an impact in their larger community of Huntsville, TX. They came upon an idea that another organization was implementing called The Gathering Place. They learned and acquired the resources they needed. They reached out into the community and found a location and volunteers. Together they have created a gathering place of connections, love, growth, and an abundance of blessings to go around. Listen in to learn more about their story and how you might create a Gathering Place in your own community. 

Description: In this podcast Carmen Bowman, MHS, with Edu-Catering, speaks about the Dining Practice Standards. The conversation covers how the standards were developed, who was involved, and the focus of each standard. The goal of the Dining Practice Standards was to establish nationally agreed upon standards of practice supporting individualized choice and self‐directed living versus traditional diagnosis‐focused food options. Examples are shared of how organizations have changed their approach to dining and the difference it is making in the lives of Elders.   

Grancare Nursing Center in Green Bay, WI, knows how to create home. During this podcast you will get a glimpse of how they are turning what others might call a facility into true home for those who live and work there. This team has integrated the Eden Alternative Principles and Domains of Well-Being deep into systems, processes, practices, and education. That effort has shaped the culture of care in the home. It was not a process that happened overnight. It has taken time, commitment, and ongoing efforts to be successful. Tune in to learn more about their story.

In this episode, we sit down with Francina Russ, Deputy Director at Clairmont Place, as she shares the transformative impact of incorporating a well-being approach into the dining experience for elders and their care partners. Francina explains how the focus on holistic health—nourishing not only the body but also the mind and spirit—has reshaped mealtimes. She discusses the innovative changes in dining that prioritize connection, choice, and joy, and how this shift has enhanced the overall quality of life for residents and care partners alike. Tune in for an insightful conversation on how a mindful approach to food can make a world of difference. 

Angie McAllister, NHA, Eden Alternative Board Chair, and Eden Educator, has been working with organizations on shifting the culture of care for well over 20 years now. The Eden Alternative Domains of Well-Being® have played a big role in her consulting work and supporting organizations in creating person-directed living environments. Angie believes the domains are tangible outcomes that are achievable and measurable. Well-being is about meeting basic human needs for all of us. Angie’s goal has always been to help organizations operationalize their processes around well-being so that the people living and working there thrive. You are invited to listen in and learn more about what that looks like. 

In this episode, Reanne Evans discusses the transformative impact of focusing on the Eden Alternative's Domains of Well-Being for both residents and care partners. Reanne shares her expertise on how the Eden Alternative framework fosters a sense of autonomy, purpose, and companionship, enriching the lives of residents and empowering care partners in long-term care settings. Reanne provides insights into how its application can create a more vibrant, fulfilling environment for everyone involved. From fostering meaningful relationships to supporting care partners’ emotional well-being, this episode offers practical advice and real-life examples of how the Eden Alternative is changing the landscape of care. Whether you’re a care provider, family member, or advocate, this conversation will inspire you to rethink how care environments can nurture both residents and their teams. 

In this episode, we sit down with Jack George, who is living with behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD). Jack shares his personal journey of navigating life with this diagnosis and how he has intentionally incorporated well-being into his daily routine. From building meaningful connections to embracing small moments of joy, Jack discusses the strategies he uses to maintain his sense of purpose, resilience, and positivity. Join us for an inspiring conversation about living well despite the challenges, and how well-being can play a pivotal role in managing life with bvFTD. 

In this episode, Sherrie Rutherford, Clinical Program Coordinator at Brethren Village in Lititz, PA, shares how embracing the domains of well-being has transformed her approach to care. She discusses the shift from a traditional clinical mindset to a more person-directed, individualized model, where residents' unique needs and preferences are at the forefront. Sherrie offers valuable insights into how this change has improved both the quality of care and the overall experience for residents and care partners alike. 

The Eden Alternative Domains of Well-Being® are all interconnected and intertwined. “If you can find the point of entry within the seven domains, strengthening that domain will lead to one domain after the other unfolding” says Rayne Stroebel, Eden Alternative Global Alliance partner in South Africa. Learn more about how the personal exploration of well-being ripples out and makes a difference in people’s lives. 

Dr. Allen Power, MD, and Dr. Angela Norman, DNP, GNP-BC, ACNP-BC, speak to the Eden Alternative Domains of Well-Being and the difference they can make in the lives of individuals as they age, especially those living with Dementia. Dr. Angela Norman took the Domains of Well-Being and created an approach that was shared with over 100 nursing homes in Arkansas. The results have been a significant reduction in psychotropic drug use for those living with dementia that was sustained through the pandemic and continues to improve. 

In this episode, we sit down with Mary Schreiber, a dementia education specialist, to uncover the transformative power of well-being and connection at Willow Valley Retirement Communities in Lancaster, PA.   Mary reveals practical tips and creative strategies for fostering deeper, more meaningful relationships between residents and volunteers, helping everyone feel seen, heard, and valued. Don't miss out on these actionable ideas to create a stronger, more connected community!  

Have you ever noticed that plans of care are often written with clinical, deficit-based language and that when you have to read it to the individual, you choose to just summarize it? Otherwise, it feels too depressing. If we don’t want to read it to them as is, then why are we writing plans of care that way? That was the inspiration for Ruth Minnema to revamp how plans of care are written and bring well-being to the forefront of the process. 

In this episode, we talk with Jill Swingen, Eden Educator and Executive Assistant at Valley Senior Living in North Dakota.  Together, we discuss how understanding and applying the Eden Alternative’s Domains of Well-Being can strengthen our connections and deepen relationships. Tune in to learn how a holistic approach to well-being can enhance the quality of your connections, both personally and professionally.  

The ultimate outcome of a life worth living is well-being. The Eden Alternative Domains of Well-Being® provide a framework that helps care environments move beyond the physical and clinical aspects of care to address the full spectrum of human needs. In this podcast you will hear from 3 individuals who were a passionate part of the development of the Domains of Well-Being. Guests: Suellen Beatty, Joe Angelelli, Carol Ende