026 Katya Deluisa: Cultivating a Dementia-Friendly Society (The Infinite Mind)

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of dementia care with our guest, Katya Deluisa, of The Infinite Mind. Katya shares her journey and how she became involved in working with individuals with dementia after observing the loneliness and lack of connection experienced by individuals with dementia, even when surrounded by family. Katya’s grown a passion for educating families on how to better understand and communicate with their loved ones.

 

The conversation delves into the nature of dementia and the physiological changes that occur in the brain. Katya explains that dementia is a symptom rather than a specific disease, encompassing a range of conditions that affect cognitive function. She discusses how dementia impacts memory, imagination, and the ability to plan for the future. 

 

She also highlights the importance of understanding altered perception in individuals with dementia and the challenges they face in perceiving and navigating the world around them.

 

The role of caregivers in providing support and care for those with dementia is a significant focus of the conversation. Katya emphasizes the need for caregivers to focus on their own self-care. It’s vital to maintain balance while caring for a loved one with this debilitating condition. She shares personal stories of caregivers she’s worked with, highlighting the transformation that can occur when they shift their perception and approach.

 

Throughout the conversation, we discuss regenerative approaches to dementia care and how individuals with dementia can still experience moments of joy, love, and connection. Katya brings focus to the unconditional love and purity of spirit that individuals with dementia possess, even as their cognitive abilities decline. She emphasizes the importance of empowering families through knowledge and shifting their perception to recognize the changing capabilities and needs of their loved ones.

 

Katya's approach to dementia education and caregiving goes beyond the conventional methods. Through her collage communication technique and other innovative approaches, Katya has helped individuals with dementia express themselves and regain a sense of identity.

 

Katya's work in educating and supporting families affected by dementia is a valuable resource for those seeking guidance and understanding in caring for their loved ones. If you’re a caregiver, have a family member whose mind is fading, or just want to better understand this condition that grips a growing percentage of our global population each year, this episode is for you.

 

One big takeaway is the importance of perception and understanding when caring for someone with dementia. Katya emphasized the need for caregivers to shift their perception of their loved ones as they navigate the cognitive changes brought on by the condition. 

 

By seeing individuals with dementia as beings in the process of releasing their ego and becoming their unique essence, caregivers can foster a deeper connection and provide better support. This shift in perception can lead to a more profound and meaningful relationship between caregivers and their loved ones.

 

Another important insight is the power of communication and connection. While individuals with dementia may lose cognitive abilities over time, their ability to love and be loved remains strong. Katya helps us remember that even in the midst of cognitive decline, people with dementia can still express and receive love, creating moments of profound connection. 

 

By understanding and embracing different forms of communication, such as using visuals or art therapy, caregivers can tap into this fundamental aspect of human connection and enhance the quality of life for both themselves and their loved ones.

 

The interview also highlighted the need for caregiver education and support. Dementia care can be emotionally and physically draining, and caregivers often face challenges managing their own well-being while providing care. The value of self-care and support networks for caregivers shouldn’t be overlooked. 

 

The Dementia Learning Institute is an invaluable resource helping caregivers navigate the complexities of dementia care and find solace in sharing experiences with others facing similar challenges.

 

Lastly, Katya emphasized the ongoing need for awareness and resources for dementia care, especially in rural areas. While progress has been made, there’s still much work to be done to expand access to information, diagnosis, and support. Katya's work with The Infinite Mind offers such education and resources to communities in need, empowering individuals and their families to better understand dementia and provide adequate care.

 

Katya's work with The Infinite Mind aims to bring education and resources to communities in need, empowering individuals and their families to better understand dementia and provide adequate care.

 

This interview with Katya de Luisa has broadened my perspective on the realities of living with dementia and the transformative power of understanding, love, and connection in dementia care. Through her advocacy and dedication, Katya is making a profound impact on the lives of individuals with dementia and their caregivers, offering hope and guidance in the face of this challenging condition.

 

Be sure to check out the resources available through her websites, "https://theinfinitemind.org" and "https://dementialearninginstitute.com." These resources provide educational materials, support groups, and coaching services for caregivers of individuals with dementia. Links can be found in the show notes.

 

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May we all find the compassion we need to embrace ourselves for who we are…

To follow more of Kayta Deluisa’s contributions toward a regenerative world, check out:
Websites

• https://theinfinitemind.org

• https://dementialearninginstitute.com 

FB - https://www.facebook.com/groups/expatdementiasupportcostarica 

IG - https://www.instagram.com/kdeluisa/ 

LI - https://www.linkedin.com/in/katya-de-luisa-5a789319/ 

 

To sign up for the Dementia Caregiver Support group on Zoom every Saturday at 10 a.m., send an email to [e-mail].

 

Asociación Costarricense de Alzheimer y otras Demencias Asociadas (ASCADA) - https://ascadacr.wordpress.com/ 

 

Also, check out Katya’s book “Journey Through the Infinite Mind”: https://www.amazon.com/Journey-Through-Infinite-Mind-Spirituality/dp/164438003X 

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For transcripts of this episode, visit https://regenerationnationcr.com/katya-deluisa 

Music: Rite of Passage by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4291-rite-of-passage 

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ 

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