Joyce Simard, M.S.W., provides consulting services to skilled nursing centers and assisted living communities. She earned her bachelor of arts in sociology/social work at Ithaca College in New York and her master's of social work at the University of Minnesota. In addition to Namaste Care, she developed The Memory Enhancement Program (MEP), a unique program for individuals experiencing memory loss above and beyond what is normal for their age and education. Residents in nursing centers, assisted living, and independent living communities who do not need a secured Alzheimer's unit benefit from this program. An internationally recognized speaker, Joyce has given seminars, such as Understanding Alzheimer's Disease, Finding Joy in the Caregiving Experience, and Staff Participation in Meaningful Activities, to families of people with dementia and health care professionals in the United States, Australia, and several cities in Asia. She also provides in-service training on a variety of subjects, including hospice, bereavement, comfort care, and activity programs for people with dementia. Joyce is known for bringing humor and a light touch to serious subjects. She teaches through stories of real experiences from her more than 20 years in health care.
