When something unexpected upends your life, how you react can have a tremendous impact. Fergus Falls Veterans Home volunteer, Milo Scott, is a shining example of how finding gratitude following a life-changing diagnosis can make all the difference.

In 2022, Milo was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, which the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ Veterans Health Library describes as a type of dementia caused by damage to nerve cells in the areas of the brain behind the forehead or ears. These parts of the brain are associated with behavior, personality and communication.

Following the diagnosis, Milo had the love and support of his wife of 37 years, four children and two grandchildren. However, he lost his job—and for a time, his sense of purpose.

Helping others is beneficial

Prior to his diagnosis, Milo donated his time and talents to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources surveying frog sounds for three years and continues to volunteer with the Otter Tail County Humane Society spending time with and helping to promote animals that are eligible for adoption. This drive to help others started at a young age for Milo. Growing up in Williston, North Dakota, Milo first volunteered at his family’s local church. And it was through church that Milo befriended a Fergus Falls Veterans Home employee. Through this friend, Milo found his way to the Minnesota Veterans Home in Fergus Falls.

Fergus Falls Volunteer Services Coordinator Erin Roberts shares, “Fergus Falls is a close-knit community, and while Milo had previously volunteered at the Humane Society, he was looking for something more.”

Making the most of each day

For the last two years, 60-year-old Milo Scott has been volunteering and visiting with Residents at the Fergus Falls Veterans Home almost every day. Erin says, “Milo is open about his diagnosis and deeply committed to living life to the fullest while he can.” She says he visits “more days than not” and “pours his heart into helping” facilitate bingo games and crafts, tackles gardening tasks like filling bird feeders and greenhouse activities, and assists with outings to concerts, bowling and fishing excursions around the area.

“I honestly don't know what we would do without him,” says Erin. “His story is one of resilience, compassion and connection—and our Residents absolutely adore him.”

Of the past two years Milo reflects, “I have made many great memories and have a favorite with just about every Veteran at the Home.”

In addition to connecting with Residents, Milo relies on all his volunteer connections to help make life special for others. He shares, “One day while volunteering at the Veterans Home, I was talking with another volunteer who was looking for a dog. I let him know about one special dog that had just arrived (at the Humane Society). He ended up adopting the dog by the end of the week.”

Creating awareness along the way

Milo primarily volunteers on the main units at the Fergus Falls Veterans Home, which also features dedicated a Veterans Village that was designed to offer a lower-stimulation, home-like setting for Residents with dementia. This is an important offering considering the Alzheimer’s Association reports Veterans can be at increased risk of developing dementia.

For Veterans with dementia who are looking for skilled nursing care, explore the admissions requirements for Minnesota Veterans Homes.

If you are interested in volunteering at a Minnesota Veterans Home, complete an application.