Alzheimer's

Alzheimer's disease is the most feared illness among adults. When you or someone you love are diagnosed, everything changes. I understand the pain and complexities of living with memory impairments and associated changes. I am passionate about supporting individuals and families navigate life with Alzheimer's disease and other neurologic disorders (frontotemporal dementia, vascular dementia, dementia with lewy bodies, etc.)

Dementia is a challenging diagnosis for the entire family, chosen or otherwise. It requires immense flexibility and caregiving skill, all while you and your person are grieving the changes happening outside of our control. I have three years experience supporting dementia clients and families from diagnosis to end of life, I can help you troubleshoot issues as they arise with practical interventions as well as holding space for the concurrent emotional process.

We offer full evaluation of memory-based difficulties to determine cause. Alzheimer’s disease is one possibility, but many older adults fall in the “worried well” category. Neuropsychological testing provides clarity, confidence, and a baseline for future comparisons. For others, many other (sometimes reversible) medical and psychological conditions may be at play, including Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus, depression, anxiety, and obstructive sleep apnea. We also offer cognitive rehabilitation.

My family has a multigenerational relationship with Alzheimer's disease. My most recent experience is being a caregiver to my mother. I realized then that there is a lack of support for caregivers be it spouses, children, or friends. I became a therapist for my community of caregivers and it is my greatest gift to be of service to those who share this journey. With education and tools for self care this is a journey that can be supported with love and empathy and a safe space to grieve.

I have had years of extensive training in the Mass General Hospital Neurology department running support groups and conducting research as a caregiver support clinician. I am well educated in assisting caregivers caring for someone living with dementia, specifically Alzheimer's and Frontotemporal Dementia.

Alzheimer's and other memory issues affect everyone in the family. Caregiver mental health is just as important as the health of the person living with dementia. I have worked extensively with both.

I have many years of experience evaluating and determining a variety of dementia types. Alzheimer's is the most common neurodegenerative disease. However, memory loss may also be related to many other causes. During my evaluations I am able to look at specific cognitive performance patterns and diagnose a variety of dementias and/or other causes for memory loss.

As a previous hospice social worker, I have experience working with older adults that have progressing Alzheimer's or dementia. This can be distressing for the individual, as well as the family. I am here to support anyone that is navigating this disease.

My family has a multigenerational relationship with Alzheimer's disease. My most recent experience is being a caregiver to my mother. I realized then that there is a lack of support for caregivers be it spouses, children, or friends. I became a therapist for my community of caregivers and it is my greatest gift to be of service to those who share this journey. With education and tools for self care this is a journey that can be supported with love and empathy and a safe space to grieve.

For a large part of my career I have been able to work with and support folks with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia as well as provide dementia education to professionals and families in long term care.