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New, compassionate therapy for Alzheimer’s & Dementia patients
The Feb. 12 Wellness Council meeting from 12 noon – 1 p.m. at the Colorado County Courthouse 1st Floor Courtroom is set to feature a true pioneer in the field of senior care and cognitive health. Tonja Moon, the nation’s leading expert in Dementia Doll Therapy and founder of The Grand Baby Project, will be joining as the guest speaker to share her transformative insights into Dementia care.
A New Approach to Dementia Care
While traditional therapies often focus on clinical intervention, Tonja Moon has spent years perfecting a more compassionate, sensory-based approach. Through The Grand Baby Project, a non-profit she founded in honor of her Grandmother Ruby, she has demonstrated how specialized “empathy dolls” can significantly reduce anxiety, improve communication, and restore a sense of purpose for those living with Dementia.
Moon’s work has garnered national attention for its simple yet profound effectiveness. Her method doesn’t just manage symptoms; it reconnects families and provides comfort to seniors who may feel isolated by their diagnosis.
What to Expect
Attendees of the Wellness Council meeting will gain a firsthand look at: _ The Science of Empathy: Why doll therapy works on a neurological and emotional level.
_ Impact Stories: Real- world examples of how The Grand Baby Project is changing lives in care facilities and private homes.
_ Practical Tools: Advice for caregivers and healthcare professionals on integrating creative therapy into daily routines.
“Our mission is to bring light back into the lives of those navigating the fog of dementia,” says Moon. “It’s about dignity, purpose, and the power of a nurturing connection.”
The Columbus Lions Club “Leos” Homeschool Group dressed 44 Dementia Therapy Dolls for the local community.
The Wellness Council is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to all citizens of Colorado County to advocate, increase awareness, decrease stigma and educate regarding mental health, health and wellness challenges, issues and treatment options. In 2025, the Council sponsored four Mental Health First Aid Classes with 100 local citizens attending; held the 1st Annual Health Fair on the Square with over 300 attending, and held aits 3rd Annual Stop Bullying Art contest with 450 local student artist entries.
The Wellness Council meetings are open to the public at no cost and have professionals with expertise in specific fields of mental health, health and wellness presenting.
Check out the website: www.Wel lnessGCV. org with the Resource Directory that has over 200 mental health, health and wellness providers; also on FB!
