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Greetings!

Monica Eastway Gerontologist
Blue Dragonfly
Painted Branch

Monica Ann Eastway, M.S.

Eco Gerontology Pioneer | Educator | Nature-Connected Changemaker​

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As someone who has personally faced the stress and trauma of placing a loved one in a care facility, I understand the importance of revolutionizing our care systems. My passion for innovating a new model of living and care stems from my experience with my great-grandmother, Tess, and the dismay we both experienced when she was admitted into a skilled nursing facility on the sixth floor without access to Nature, the outdoors, gardens, or her beloved dog. 

 

My work incorporates and expands the Ecology Theory of Aging, which recognizes the impact of and our interdependence with our environments on physical mobility, cognitive decline, and sensory loss. Our environments, including the natural and human-built environments, play a vital role in our ability to live full and connective lives throughout our lifespan.

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As a meaningful engagement professional, I have extensive experience engaging people living with dementia. I am the founder of Rockin' Wrinkles!, a musical movement program for vibrant aging.

I provided over 600 in-person sessions, and I can assure you, the music never dies. 

 

While working 1:1 with clients living with dementia, I became aware of the positive effect of being outdoors, in the fresh air, sunlight, looking up at the sky, connecting with the wider world beyond the walls, and moments noticing Nature's beauty had on those I was sharing care with. 

 

Decades of research support the positive impact of nature on health and wellbeing for all ages.

 

Let's Share Care Outdoors!

 

Co-Creating Accessible, Supportive, Healing and Biodiverse, Ecological Care Environments
For All Ages.

 

My expertise lies in co-designing and sharing care in, supportive, accessible, and multifunctional outdoor places that connect, nurture person-centered experiences and grow reciprocal shared care. 

 

I am passionate about continuing education, because I believe it is the most powerful tool we have to create meaningful change and shape a better future.

 

My academic foundation includes a Master of Science in Gerontology from the University of Indianapolis and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology & Philosophy from the University of Toledo.

 

Additionally, I have over 25 years of experience as a Healing Arts Professional, specializing in massage, sound healing, mindfulness, laughter yoga, play, meditation, and aromatherapy.

 

My research interests are focused on Green Care, Nature Connectedness, AWE, and Growing Community-Based and Nature-Connected Care & Housing. 

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Curious to learn about how and why I am so passionate about 'Eco' Gerontology?

Enjoy this article from my Alma Mater: Sowing the Seeds of Change.

 

Through my work, I have gained extensive knowledge and practical experience in the design, development, and execution of customized wellbeing programs that showcase cutting-edge research and innovative approaches to care.

 

I am passionate about nature connected practices, recognizing their vital role in promoting the health and wellbeing of individuals and whole communities. Working closely with health professionals, carers, universities, colleges and communities, I strive to create fun and engaging outdoor experiences that benefit both people and our shared home. 

 

My mission is to deliver ethical and professional care grounded in evidence-based practices, using a person-centered and reciprocal-shared care approach.

 

~ Connecting All Ages to the Goodness of Our Shared Home ~

 

As an end-of-life doula, I offer support and guidance to individuals facing the end of their lives.

My areas of focus include honoring disenfranchised grief, helping individuals write their own obituaries, and facilitating a peaceful and fulfilling death experience.

 

I Develop Easy-to-Digest and Fun Educational Programming that Inspires and Transforms!

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Be a Catalyst for Change 

If you believe everyone deserves access to healing, engaging, and nature-connected environments

— you're in the right place.

 

Join the movement to advance Eco Gerontology and enroll in

Care Outdoors Continuing Education!

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Make a contribution to the Emerging Field of Eco Gerontology 

Your donation helps me continue advancing nature connected care and living through Care Outdoors Continuing Education and applied research to improve wellbeing and nurture sustainable livability for all ages on our shard home. 

💛 Your support generates lasting impact.  

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Selected Media and Public Engagements:

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Education:

Master of Science in Gerontology, University of Indianapolis

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Philosophy, University of Toledo 

End-of-Life Doula Professional Certificate, University of Vermont

Permaculture Design Credential, Santa Cruz Permaculture 

Emotional Intelligent Leadership Certificate, Weatherhead School of Management

Licensed Massage Therapist, Ohio State Medical Board

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​© 2021 by Monica Ann Eastway

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