Caroline Brucken-Courtesy-Thrive Alliance/Fairlawn Presbyterian Church

COLUMBUS, Ind. — Like many congregations, Fairlawn Presbyterian Church includes several members living with dementia and even more who are involved in caregiving for someone living with dementia.

Led by Pastor Elizabeth Kirkpatrick, the church recently offered dementia-friendly business training, by Sue Lamborn of Thrive Alliance, providing a one-hour educational session for all church members to learn how to support people living with dementia. The training also taught the importance of environmental changes that may need to be made, such as moving signage to eye level and the importance of offering a care partner restroom. As a result of this program, Fairlawn Presbyterian Church is a Dementia Friendly Church. 

Columbus North High School student, Caroline Brucken, pitched further dementia education for Fairlawn Presbyterian Church members as her senior project. She presented a program called The Virtual Dementia Tour, sponsored by Thrive Alliance and licensed through Second Wind Dreams.

The program began with a brief information session covering the emotional and physical effects of dementia along with tips for caregivers. Using special equipment that limits one’s physical sense, participants were then led through a virtual experience that simulated the experience of living with dementia. Individuals spent 10 minutes in a dark room filled with everyday household items and were given tasks. They were then led to a debriefing session to discuss their thoughts and feelings experienced in the simulation.

Pastor Kirkpatrick stated, “These continued programs foster a spiritual connection and meaningful engagement for those living with dementia, as well as supporting their families and care partners.” 

For more information on the Virtual Dementia Tour contact Sue Lamborn at 812-314-2764.

COLUMBUS, Ind. – Our Hospice of South Central Indiana has announced that it has received a generous donation from Thrive Alliance that will significantly improve the quality of life for dementia patients.

The donation includes several lifelike robotic animals designed to provide sensory-based stimulation and comfort to patients experiencing dementia. The innovative pets calm patients, encouraging them to smile, hug, and stroke the robotic animal’s fur. The tactile stimulation and realistic movements, like purring and meowing, offer a sense of companionship and entertainment.

President of Our Hospice Steph Cain said, “These robotic animals will make the transition from home to our care center much smoother. They not only provide comfort but also act as a catalyst for social connection, sparking positive interactions with staff, visitors, and fellow patients.”

Our Hospice, a certified Music and Memory organization, also received a Music and Memory kit that includes a portable MP3 player, headphones, and a speaker, allowing personalized playlists filled with music from the patients’ preferred genres.

“Familiar music has a profound impact on dementia patients,” explains Dr. Leigh Anderson, Medical Director at Our Hospice. “It can soothe agitation, reduce anxiety, and promote a sense of calmness. Music transcends communication barriers, fostering connection and a sense of belonging.”

Donations like this allow Our Hospice to implement innovative therapies and create a more dementia-friendly environment. “We are incredibly grateful to Thrive Alliance for their generous donation,” says Cain. “These gifts will allow us to better meet the needs of our dementia patients.”