EP 136 :: Memory Care that Focuses on the Person :: Part 1:: Mary Underwood

Mary Underwood – a social worker of 33 years with a primary focus on memory care, and two-time Alzheimer’s Association Outstanding Caregiver of the Year Award winner – has learned a lot in her career. Most importantly, care facilities and caregivers need to always focus on the person, not the illness. Even if a person’s needs and conditions for living a good life change as a cause of dementia, their unique life story is always with them and should be reflected in their care. It's a philosophy that supports dignified, individualized care. Plus, it can make things easier for the caregiver as well, which is a win-win in our book.

Mary Underwood is the Vice President of Memory Care Services at Artis Senior Living and has dedicated her career to helping our elders who are impacted by the affliction of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Mary has worked at Arden Courts, Masonicare, Benchmark Senior Living, and Atria in the positions of Executive Director, Resident Care Coordinator, Regional Director of Alzheimer’s Services, and Life Guidance Program Director respectively. Prior to joining Artis in 2015, Mary served as the Vice President of Memory Care Services and Resident Experience at Maplewood Senior Living. Since joining Artis Senior Living, Mary has successfully developed and implemented a mission and philosophy for the company that supports dignified, individualized care for those diagnosed with Memory Impairment.

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