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About the Author
Kerry Ann Sandsmark, CSA
A Certified Senior Advisor, Kerry Ann Sandsmark brings her wealth of experience and passion to the realm of caregiving. Recognized for her dedication and expertise, Kerry provides practical insights and heartfelt stories that resonate with caregivers worldwide. As she often says:
You become the expert for your loved one. You CAN do this!
I appreciate the opportunity I have had to work for people with various types of memory loss who were in different stages of decline. I have learned a great deal regarding my own actions affecting someone else’s behavior from these experiences. I am left with many fond memories of people who are no longer with us and these encounters have changed the very direction of my own life. As much as each person was an individual and their care was tailored to be as person-centered as possible; I found that the foundations of care that did not change between them was empathy, dignity, and meaningful connections through words, actions, and touch.
The essence of a Balance of Dignity is as we relinquish the control (we believe) we have over someone else and allow them to know of their own value, we allow them their dignity.There’s enough negativity, despair and heartbreak with this disease, for everyone involved. We have to find the fun by understanding what we can do to make things better, accepting what we cannot change and let go of the guilt associated.
I believe we should be sharing information as an industry standard. My hope is that this small book that is a compilation of over ten years of personal direct care experience, is able to answer some questions and gives you somewhere to go to get more questions answered. After all, my job is to educate, inform, and to refer.
My Philosophy
Memory care at home is more than just tasks and routines; it's about creating moments of connection, understanding, and love. We believe in the balance of dignity, where both the caregiver and the cared-for feel valued and understood. Through our tools and resources, we aspire to make this balance achievable for every caregiver.