Mary, Local Administrator, Alzheimer's CAREGiver Training Program

After 15 years in various office positions, Mary knew she wanted a job where she was involved with helping people.  A job as a CAREGiver offered the opportunity to make the difference in someone's life, and Mary began with Home Instead Senior Care in September 2002.  Mary's experience with clients who had Alzheimer's Disease helped her realize how important it was to become educated about this debilitating illness.  After completing the exclusive Alzheimer's CAREGiver Training Program developed by the George G. Glenner Alzheimer's Family Centers for Home Instead Senior Care, Mary observed how helpful her training was in her interactions with clients.  Mary is passionate about helping those with Alzheimer's Disease, and she became the Local Administrator for our Alzheimer's CAREGiver Training Program in 2009.  In this role, Mary directs extensive learning activities to teach CAREGivers about the clinical aspects of Alzheimer's Disease, as well as practical methods of interaction that maximize the independence and continued dignity of individuals who progress through the stages of the disease.  Mary savors her work as a Lead CAREGiver, where she continues to provide direct care to clients.  When she's not working, Mary enjoys a quiet life with her husband in the hills of Virginia surrounded by nature.

Kandi, Community Service Representative, Shenandoah County

Those who work with seniors in Shenandoah County see Kandi helping others everywhere.  Kandi has lived in Shenandoah County her entire life.  While teaching at a Christian school, Kandi began a nursing home ministry with the children in her school.  Kandi loved to see the nursing home residents light up whenever she brought children into the facility.  Kandi recalls this experience as the one that sparked her love for seniors and her desire to help them in their daily lives.  With her motivation to make a difference, Kandi came to Home Instead Senior Care in 2006.  As our Community Service Representative for Shenandoah County, Kandi lets people know how Home Instead Senior Care can enhance the lives of seniors and their families.  Kandi also coordinates our Be a Santa to a Senior program at the local level during the holiday season.