Grannies Talkin’ Dementia
We want to be your go to podcast where wisdom meets wit in the world of caregiving! Imagine sitting down for a cup of tea with your spunkiest, most insightful granny friends who’ve been through the thick and thin of caring for loved ones with dementia. Gathering around the kitchen table each with a story of love, challenge, and faith while navigating the journey of dementia care. Every episode is brimming with real-life tales, sprinkled with laughter, seasoned with practical wisdom, and rooted in a deep faith that lights the way. From navigating the ups and downs of memory care to sharing the secret recipes for keeping spirits high, discussing the emotions or sharing those little moments of grace, this podcast is a testament to facing the trials of dementia with a spirit of gratitude and trust in God’s plan. With respect and laughter, “Grannies Talkin’ Dementia” is here to remind you that you’re not alone and that joy can be found even on the toughest days. So, grab your favorite mug and let the comforting blend of humor, advice, and faith uplift your spirit and guide you through your caregiving journey with and smile and open heart.
Episodes

Thursday Dec 12, 2024
Thursday Dec 12, 2024
In this episode of Granny's Talkin' Dementia, hosts Rayna Neises and Tonja Moon, in cahoots with The Grand Baby Projects, share insights into the whimsical yet profound wisdom relating to caregiving in dementia. The episode highlights the significance of National Wear Your Pearls Day, founded by DeAnna Heard, emphasizing resilience and the beauty that comes from adversity, much like how a pearl forms from a grain of sand. The hosts discuss the historical importance of pearls and their personal memories associated with them.
The conversation transitions into exploring the importance of clothing in caregiving, including adaptive clothing designed to make dressing easier and maintain dignity for individuals with dementia.
Additionally, the episode touches on dementia doll therapy and the role of adaptive clothing in enhancing comfort and independence for those with cognitive and physical challenges. Links to adaptive clothing resources and community engagement for sharing tips are encouraged.
00:00 Welcome to Granny's Talk in Dementia
00:29 National Wear Your Pearls Day
01:56 The History and Significance of Pearls
04:40 Personal Stories and Memories with Pearls
09:13 Dressing and Dementia Care
11:39 Challenges and Solutions in Dressing
14:31 Adaptive Clothing for Dementia
26:32 Engaging with Dementia Patients through Clothing
34:14 Final Thoughts and Blessings

Thursday Nov 28, 2024
Thursday Nov 28, 2024
In this heartwarming episode of Granny's Talk in Dementia, hosts Rayna Neises and Tonja Moon collaborate with The Grand Baby Projects to offer whimsical wisdom and support for caregivers of individuals with dementia. The episode opens with discussions on the significance of Forget Me Not Day, highlighting the beauty and symbolism of these flowers in relation to Alzheimer's awareness.
The hosts share deeply personal family memories tied to flowers, reflecting on their own experiences as family caregivers. They introduce the concept of gratitude as a pivotal tool for caregivers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive perspective amidst challenges. The hosts also share practical exercises, including a 'Yes, and' improv technique, to help caregivers cultivate gratitude in their daily lives.
The episode concludes with a comforting blessing from Isaiah, offering listeners a sense of peace and guidance in their caregiving journey. This episode is filled with touching narratives, valuable insights, and practical tips, making it a must-listen for anyone involved in dementia care.
00:00 Introduction to Granny’s Talk in Dementia
00:28 Forget Me Not Day and Flower Memories
01:51 Family Flower Stories and Green Thumbs
05:02 Caregiving Stories and Challenges
09:02 The Importance of Gratitude in Caregiving
18:06 Practical Gratitude Exercises
24:32 Gratitude Activity and Blessing

Thursday Nov 14, 2024
Thursday Nov 14, 2024
In this episode of ‘Granny’s Talkin’ Dementia,’ hosts Rayna Neises and Tonja Moon celebrate National Chicken Soup Day by sharing nostalgic memories and invaluable tips for dementia caregivers. They discuss cherished family recipes and the profound impact of food and smell on memory. Guests Tracy Crump provides heartwarming stories about caregiving from her contributions to the Chicken Soup for the Soul series. The episode also covers practical tips for improving the dining experience for dementia patients and introduces The Grand Baby Project’s dementia therapy dolls. The segment concludes with a comforting message and blessing from Isaiah 40:1.
00:00 Introduction to Granny’s Talkin' Dementia
00:28 National Chicken Soup Day Memories
02:34 Family Recipes and Cooking Stories
04:36 Cherished Memories and Caregiving Challenges
08:48 The Grandbaby Project and Special Guest Introduction
10:04 Tracy Crump’s Caregiving Journey
21:14 The Emotional Challenges of Moving a Loved One
22:16 The Importance of a Supportive Community
23:29 Sharing Family Recipes and Memories
25:08 The Secret to Delicious Chicken Noodle Soup
26:32 Dementia Engagement Strategies
28:13 Changes in Taste and Eating Habits with Age
33:06 The Role of Vision in Eating for Dementia Patients
36:24 The Therapeutic Benefits of Dementia Dolls
40:27 Practical Tips for Caregivers
41:55 A Blessing for Caregivers

Thursday Oct 31, 2024
Thursday Oct 31, 2024
Whimsical Wisdom and Faith in Caregiving
In this introductory episode of ‘Grannies Talking Dementia,’ hosts Rayna Neises and Tonja Moon share their personal experiences with dementia caregiving, covering powerful stories of their loved ones, the critical role of faith, and practical tips for caregivers.
Supported by The Grandbaby Project, they introduce the concept of using therapy dolls and the importance of maintaining humor and joy in the caregiving journey.
The episode emphasizes the mission to inspire, educate, and provide a sense of community and compassion for both family and professional caregivers.
00:00 Welcome to Grannies Talking Dementia
00:45 Rayna’s Personal Journey with Dementia
04:21 Tonja’s Story and The Grandbaby Project
08:00 The Therapeutic Power of Dementia Dolls
10:32 Faith, Laughter, and Caregiving Wisdom
12:50 Conclusion and Blessing

Welcome to "Grannies Talkin' Dementia," a podcast where heart meets hope, hosted by Tonja Moon, founder of The Grand Baby Project and Rayna Neises, an ICF Certified Coach.
Together, we have over 40 years of dementia caregiving experience and we are on a mission to shed light on the journey of dementia caregiving with empathy, expertise, and a touch of grace.
Our podcast is a sanctuary for stories, strategies, and support, aimed at those navigating the challenging yet rewarding path of caring for a loved one with dementia.
As the Grannies, we bring a blend of personal experience and professional insight to each episode, offering listeners not just advice, but companionship on their caregiving journey. Whether you're a seasoned caregiver or just beginning to understand what dementia caregiving entails, "Grannies Talkin' Dementia" provides a space to learn, laugh, and find solace.
Join us as we explore the highs and lows of caregiving, share expert tips, and celebrate the moments of joy and connection. Listen in, join our community and empower your caregiving journey with wit, wisdom, and love.