In this episode, I sit down with Marsha Goetting, Extension Educator from Montana State University, for a compassionate and eye-opening conversation about a topic many farm families quietly struggle with: dementia.
We explore how cognitive decline affects farm operations, family roles, and long-term planning, and why facing it head-on with clarity and care is essential. From understanding legal readiness to building respectful caregiving plans, Marsha shares stories, strategies, and practical tools to help families support aging loved ones with dignity.
Together, we talk about the emotional weight of ambiguous loss, how to include children in the journey, and ways to bring more peace into difficult seasons of change. Whether you’re already navigating dementia in your family or simply want to be prepared, this episode offers heartfelt guidance you won’t want to miss.
If your farm team includes aging parents or partners, this is the episode to listen to together.
“They know something’s wrong, but they’re told it’s just forgetfulness. The truth is, sharing a diagnosis isn’t cruel. It gives them time to act, legally, financially, emotionally. You’re not taking hope away. You’re giving them dignity.” -Marsha Goetting
Mentioned During This Episode
Books
- Creating Moment of Joy for the Person with Alzheimer’s or Dementia by Jolene Brackey
- Remember by Lisa Genova
- Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias: Support for Montana Farmers and Ranchers and Their Families – Volumes 1 and 2
Resources
Elaine Froese Resources & Links
- SPEAKING – book Elaine for your next event
- COACHING – find your Farm Transition Coach
- MEMBERSHIP – Join the Farm Family Harmony Membership waitlist
- RESOURCES – download for FREE
- CONTACT – take the next steps in your transition
About Our Guest
Dr. Marsha Goetting is a Professor and Extension Family Economics Specialist at Montana State University in Bozeman. In 2023, she received the Distinguished Service Ruby Award from Epsilon Sigma Phi, an Extension Honorary. In 2024, she received the Community Partner Award from AARP-Montana.
Dr. Goetting is a member of the Montana Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias Coalition. She has been appointed to the Montana Supreme Court Commission on Continuing Legal Education. She received her PhD from Iowa State University and her master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Kansas State University.
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Timestamps
[0:01:33] – Introduction to dealing with dementia on farm/ranch topic and Marsha’s background
[0:04:03] – Personal experience with mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis and early warning signs
[0:08:45] – Power of attorney importance and legal documentation needs
[0:12:34] – Table of contents overview of the dementia resource guide
[0:13:44] – Rural-specific challenges and stigma around dementia diagnosis
[0:17:43] – Safety concerns on farms (cattle, equipment, guns, driving)
[0:23:58] – Working with medical professionals and dementia-friendly communities
[0:28:49] – Driving cessation challenges and family navigation
[0:34:23] – Caregiver wellness and avoiding burnout
[0:34:46] – Resources for children dealing with grandparents’ dementia
[0:41:09] – Key takeaways: continuing to love the person through the journey
[0:42:40] – Final advice on not procrastinating with legal planning and destigmatizing dementia
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