031 - The Antidote to Loneliness with Jean Garboden

In this episode of Rise and Thrive, Scott and Melissa sit down with Jean Garboden, a true innovator in people experience, to explore one of the most powerful pillars of senior living: connection.

Jean opens up about her personal journey—rooted in her son’s work in assisted living and her own transformative experiences with the Eden Alternative—and shares how touch, validation, and genuine presence can change the way we care for our elders.

From understanding dementia with compassion, to empowering care partners, to using music, spontaneity, and simple human connection to spark joy… this episode is a beautiful reminder that elder care is not just a service—it’s a relationship.

✨ Key Takeaways:

• Connection is the heart of combating loneliness

• The Eden Alternative champions person-directed care

• Validation techniques matter in dementia support

• Family education is essential

• Touch, music & presence create meaningful moments

• Care partners shape the quality of elder living

• A positive attitude impacts wellbeing—emotionally & physically

A powerful, heart-centered conversation you don’t want to miss. 💛

#SeniorLiving #EdenAlternative #CarePartners #DementiaSupport #ElderCare #ConnectionMatters #RiseAndThrivePodcast