Finding Hope and Connection: The Power of Community in Dementia Support

with Daphne Johnston,

Co-Founder and Executive Director, Respite for All Foundation

This week on the Art of Aging, host Rev. Beth Long-Higgins welcomes Daphne Johnston, Co-Founder and Executive Director at Respite for All Foundation. Daphne shares her journey in senior care administration and her passion for supporting families affected by dementia. She discusses the inception and growth of the RFA program, which provides community-driven dementia care and respite for caregivers. Daphne highlights the program’s expansion to 52 communities in 15 states, the training provided to volunteers, and the profound impact on families and individuals. Personal stories illustrate the program’s transformative power and the importance of community support. You won’t want to miss this episode.
Play Video

Notes:

Highlights from this week’s conversation include:

  • Daphne’s Background and the story of RFA (1:23)
  • Scaling the Model (4:34)
  • From Local to National (5:27)
  • Volunteer Training (11:36)
  • Signature Stories of the Ministry (13:15)
  • Community Connection (18:06)
  • Essentials for Starting an RFA chapter (20:59)
  • Respite Program Overview (23:44)
  • Foundation Growth (25:51)
  • Volunteer Impact (27:58)
  • Dementia-Friendly Services (32:09)
  • Upcoming Documentary (35:18)
  • Training Opportunities (36:05)
  • Abundant Aging Questions for Daphne (37:48)
  • Connecting with Respite for All and Parting Thoughts (40:51)

 

Abundant Aging is a podcast series presented by United Church Homes. These shows offer ideas, information, and inspiration on how to improve our lives as we grow older. To learn more and to subscribe to the show, visit abundantagingpodcast.com. 

Get in Touch

Copyright ©2025 All Rights Reserved