JACKSON, Wyo. — Miekka Zanders is on a mission to provide information about living with dementia to those who need it most: their caregivers.
The executive director at Legacy Lodge first compiled her knowledge, gained from years of experience working with people living with dementia, in a book. Now, she’s taking it to the internet. Zanders recently gave a Facebook Live interview to Home Instead Senior Care, a worldwide company that provides in-home caregivers.
Zanders’ approach is one of compassion and presence. Her interview with Home Instead focused on the power of presence when caring for loved ones with dementia.
“I wrote this book to not only provide an unintimidating resource for caregivers, but to help them see that there is hope,” Zanders said. “As cognition is lost, there are still many remaining strengths. If we can recognize and celebrate those strengths by being present, we will have greater success not only at achieving tasks, but also enjoying a sense of love and belonging — true connection.”
Zanders’ message clearly resonated with its audience — nearly 60,000 people have viewed the video since it aired two weeks ago. If her message is something you need, too, here it is:
