AlterDementia
In this episode of Aging For All, we welcome Dr. Fayron Epps, an expert in caregiver research and the founder of the ALTER program. Dr. Epps discusses her work in creating dementia-friendly congregations, particularly within the Black community, and emphasizes the importance of caregiver support, community engagement, and the challenges faced in changing the culture of faith communities. Join us as we learn more about the need for awareness, education, and action to improve the quality of life for families affected by dementia.
Meet Out Special Guest!
Dr. Fayron Epps was recently named the inaugural Karen and Ron Hermann Endowed Chair in Caregiver Research within the School of Nursing at the University of Texas San Antonio. Dr. Epps is an accomplished nurse scholar, brings a wealth of expertise and experience in caregiving, strongly focusing on improving the quality of life for families affected by dementia. She earned her doctoral degree in nursing from Southern University and A&M College and completed her post-doctoral fellowship with the National Hartford Center of Gerontological Nursing Excellence, showcasing her dedication to academic excellence. Epps also holds a Master’s of Science degree in Nursing specializing in Health Care Systems Management from Loyola University New Orleans and earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Tuskegee University. Her primary career goal as a nurse scholar is to enhance the quality of life for families affected by dementia through a combination of research, education, and service. Dr. Epps specializes in evidence-based practices that promote a higher quality of life for African Americans with dementia and their family caregivers. Her research is particularly focused on exploring how religious activities and spiritual connectedness can foster meaningful engagement among persons with dementia. She is the founder of the only nurse-led dementia-friendly congregation program, Alter. Through this program, Dr. Epps and her interdisciplinary team collaborate with African American faith communities, equipping them with the necessary tools and resources to support families facing dementia.
Listen to the Episode
or Click Here!
Additional Resources
Dementia Friendly America website
Alter Dementia website
Categories Season 2