dementia guidance
About Me
My name is Amy Claire Massingale, and I bring a unique perspective to dementia care. I was a family caregiver to both parents (Alzheimer's and Lewy Body dementia); and I also gained professional experience working and volunteering in long term care facilities.
I founded Both Sides to help individuals, families and professionals navigate the complex and fractured healthcare system, advocate for yourself or your loved one, make decisions about the care environment and care team, and advise best practices for some of the most challenging situations dementia can present.
Believe it or not, this can also be a time of laughter and meaningful connection.
My practice can help you access the joy.
We Love
Making People
Happy
Both Sides
Compassionate, expert guidance to help you navigate the dementia journey - whether you are someone recently diagnosed, a family caregiver or a professional.
The medical profession, healthcare system and society at large are often not dementia-friendly. Education about the disease is limited and families often find themselves making important decisions quickly in a time of crisis. They feel overwhelmed and alone.
It doesn't have to be this way.
You have a choice and some control in a situation that often feels out of control. Avoid and pretend for as long as possible; or face reality, engage and prepare. To engage takes courage and it's not always easy, It takes flexibility, patience and a lot of love. I am here to support you along the way.
Quality of life on the dementia journey is possible.
My mission is to help you find the moments of joy.
Qualifications
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Certified Alzheimer's Association Educator
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Trained Long Term Care Ombudsman for the state of Oregon
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Former Marketing Director, Pacific Gardens Alzheimer's Center
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Advocates for the Elderly (advocacy group)
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Caregivers for Compromise (advocacy group)
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Family Caregiver
Client Testimonials
A Shams
Family Caregiver
"Amy was the one person who helped me understand that the old rules didn't apply anymore...providing me with the insight to help our family with the transition to my mother's next phase. Amy helped me shift from the helpless adult child to the caregiver who could keep her parent safe. She helped us get there with kind and generous support, a wealth of knowledge and personal experience and the occasional, much needed sprinkle of humor."
Tony Wiseart
Family Caregiver
"Amy was an invaluable resoiurce throughout my dad's illness. We don't know how we could have done it without her. She knows, because she has been there herself. I can't recommend her highly enough!"
How It Works
Personalized Dementia Consulting
Care Navigation
Personalized consulting sessions focus on building your knowledge base and focusing on specific goals and challenges unique to your situation, and providing tailored strategies to achieve success. Education around:
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What is Dementia?
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Different types of dementia
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What to expect with each stage
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Geriatrics overview
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Eating, Nutrition and Exercise
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Safety and Mobility
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Nature
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Finding Purpose
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Driving
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Transitioning to congregate care
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Financial/Legal Considerations and Planning
From the outset, or at any point, my practice can help connect you with educational materials, the right care team, healthcare resources and living arrangements for every stage of the journey.
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When to seek support
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Medicaid or Medicare?
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The importance of the right team
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In-home care vs. long term care facility
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Beyond the Lobby: realities of care facilities
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Building a care team
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The Art of Advocating
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Red Flags - things to look out for
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Challenging behavior
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Visits to the ER
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I want to go "home"
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Caregiver self-care
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Burnout and Compassion Fatigue
Emotional Intelligence
What dementia takes in the form of cognitive ability, it replenishes in a person's intuition, creativity and emotional ability. Learn how people with dementia experience the world and create connection through intentional activities.
For caregivers, discover the transformative impact of Emotional Intelligence (EQ), inspiring changes for growth and meaning:
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Mindfulness
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Interpersonal Skills
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Anger Management
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Crisis Management
Hospice and End of Life
My belief is that this is a time of transition, not an ending. I have had the honor of sitting at numerous end of life bedsides, and can help ease this process with several simple and peaceful strategies. I am here for your loved one, and for you.
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Truths About Dying
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Learning about Hospice
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Leaving a Legacy
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Life Support/IV Feeding
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Pain and Anxiety Management (terminal agitation)
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Grief Support
Contact
Reach out to today to start unlocking the possibility of managing dementia and maximizing joy.