Meri Luarasi Gaumond, Executive Director on Influential Women

Influential Woman · Dementia Care

Meri Luarasi Gaumond

Executive Director, ANN SILVERMAN COMMUNITY HEALTH CLINIC

Newtown Pa, PA

27Years experience
4Awards received

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree Dual degree in psychology and languages from Tirana Degree Albania Degree Master's in counseling Degree Degree in theology from Lutheran Seminary Cert Certified Dementia Practitioner Cert Certified Dementia Manager Cert PAC Certified under TPASNO Member National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners Member National Association of Free Clinics Member Pennsylvania Association of Free Clinics

Her Story

About Meri

I am the Executive Director of Ann Silverman Community Health Clinic for 3 years while also leading Dementia Care at Home. My path began after receiving help from a free clinic upon arriving in America, motivating me to serve the uninsured. I transitioned from counseling and therapy roles into geriatrics due to my upbringing in a multi-generational household, leading me to advocate for better dementia care. I developed my own dementia training, designed memory care facilities, and am creating an 'Uber of dementia services' platform plus AI companion Dementia Buddy.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Meri

01What do you attribute your success to?

I attribute my success to God and my family. I grew up in a solid family with strong faith that grounds me every day.

02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

Be diligent and find your calling. Even when a career path doesn't look like where you want it to be. Work is unto the Lord, work hard whether the boss is present or not.

03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

This industry needs women that have compassion, understanding and willingness to go the extra mile to make a difference. Stay hungry, stay diligent, open your heart and mind, and learn and grow.

04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

We are in a health crisis with dementia affecting someone every 3 seconds. The US needs 74 million caregivers in 5 years but is not ready. This is a global crisis requiring more awareness and education.

05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

Love, compassion, faith, service, dignity, integrity, advocacy, and perseverance. Behavior is an expression of an unmet need, and love is stronger than memory.

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