Champions of Care: Jessica Garzulli Cascao

Jessica Garzulli Cascao recently joined The Alzheimer Society of Ireland's Regional Operations Administrator for the Southern Region. We asked Jessica about her motivation for joining The ASI and how she’s found her first few months in the role:???

Jessica joined the ASI because she was profoundly moved by the incredible work being done to support those affected by Alzheimer's and related conditions. Her journey began with a personal connection: her grandmother was diagnosed with both dementia and Parkinson's disease. Unfortunately, in the country where her grandmother resides, there is a lack of adequate support and resources for people living with these conditions. This gap in care and support deeply impacted Jessica, driving her to seek out ways to make a difference.?

The first time she walked into the Bessboro Daycare Centre, Jessica was struck by a sense of warmth and compassion. The centre radiated a beautiful energy, and she immediately felt a strong connection, as though it was meant to be. The dedication and passion of the staff and volunteers were evident in the thoughtful care provided to each person. It was heartening to see a place where those affected by Alzheimer's could find not only assistance but also a sense of community and understanding.?

Being part of the Alzheimer's Society of Ireland has given Jessica the opportunity to contribute to an organisation that is truly making a difference. Whether through raising awareness, providing essential services, or advocating for better policies, the society's work is crucial for improving the lives of individuals and families affected by these challenging conditions. She is proud to be involved in such meaningful work and to help ensure that more people receive the support and care they need.?

Currently, Jessica is the Regional Operations Administrator for the Southern Region at the Alzheimer's Society of Ireland. In this role, she works closely with the Southern Regional Operations Manager and collaborates with all Day Care, Home Care, and Daycare centres in the southern region. Her responsibilities include coordinating and supporting the operational activities of these centres, ensuring that high-quality care and support are delivered to those affected by Alzheimer's and their families.?

Jessica’s inspiration to work in the field of dementia care and support stems from her strong inclination towards being a "people person." She has always been driven by a deep-seated desire to help those in need and to ensure that everyone is given the opportunity to live a dignified and fulfilling life. This passion is particularly important when it comes to supporting individuals with dementia, as they often face unique challenges that can impact their quality of life. She believes that everyone deserves to be treated with respect and fairness, and this belief drives her work every day.?

Despite increasing awareness, there remains a significant lack of understanding about dementia among the general public. This can lead to stigma and misconceptions, which may prevent people from seeking help or receiving early diagnosis and treatment. While there have been advances in understanding dementia, there is still much to learn about its causes, progression, and treatment. Continued research is essential to develop effective interventions and ultimately find a cure.?

Jessica hopes to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by dementia by deepening her understanding of the disease and enhancing the support provided to individuals and their families. Some of her goals include increasing knowledge and expertise, providing compassionate and effective support, and raising awareness to reduce stigma.?

Working in dementia care requires a unique set of qualities, as it involves supporting individuals and their families through often challenging and sensitive circumstances. The most important qualities for someone in this field include empathy and compassion, patience, strong communication skills, adaptability and flexibility, resilience and emotional stability, and attention to detail and observational skills.?

Jessica stays motivated and passionate about her work in dementia care by constantly reminding herself of the fundamental reason behind what they do. The core of their mission is to improve the lives of individuals affected by dementia, and keeping this purpose in mind helps her stay focused and driven. Seeing the happiness and smiles on their clients' faces is a powerful source of inspiration for her. Those moments of joy and connection reaffirm the importance of their work and the positive difference it makes. Each smile and each sign of contentment remind her that their efforts are truly making an impact.?

In Jessica’s opinion, the broader community can play a crucial role in supporting individuals with dementia and their families by volunteering, supporting families dealing with dementia, being compassionate and respectful, and promoting the use of compassionate and patient communication techniques, recognising the dignity and value of each person.?

Jessica has a long-standing passion for contemporary dancing. She dedicated many years to this art form, participating in South African championships where she achieved considerable success, including winning numerous gold medals. Dancing has been a vital part of her life, allowing her to express creativity and discipline. In her spare time, she makes it a priority to stay fit by going to the gym daily. She finds that maintaining physical fitness is essential not only for her overall health but also for sustaining the energy and focus needed in both her professional and personal life.?

Please feel free to follow Jessica to keep up to date with all that’s going on in the Southern Region; and if you’d like to find your career with impact, please search for us in the jobs section or visit alzheimer.ie/careers.??