Eleonora Tornatore- Mikesh Interview With Park Magazine

By W.A. Muller 

Can you tell us what brought you to this specific career?
My decision to specialize in healthcare, particularly focusing on Alzheimer’s, stems from a deep commitment to addressing a complex and emotionally challenging area of medical care. Alzheimer’s disease, with its progressive nature, not only affects those diagnosed but also places a significant burden on their families and caregivers. To work effectively in this field requires a balanced mix of scientific knowledge, emotional strength, and dedication to improving the lives of those impacted.

My choice to enter Alzheimer’s care was influenced by various factors. Personal experiences with the disease, through family and friends, often serve as a powerful motivator. Seeing the effects of Alzheimer’s firsthand inspired me to contribute to research, care, and support systems.

I had a passion to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, especially in Alzheimer’s care. Our work at CaringKind involves not only addressing medical needs but also providing psychological support, creating a supportive environment for patients, and guiding families through the challenges.

Working in this field provides an opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking efforts that could transform lives worldwide.

By dedicating my career to Alzheimer’s care, I joined a community of professionals committed to advancing our understanding of the disease, improving care practices, and ultimately finding a cure. My work in this area is not just a job but a personal commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by Alzheimer’s.

In what ways does CaringKind support families?
CaringKind is committed to helping individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer’s and dementia. Our support services are designed to address various needs within the Alzheimer’s community.

We offer a 24/7 Helpline that provides emotional support, information, and resources to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s. We also facilitate support groups led by trained facilitators, offering a space for caregivers and family members to share experiences, advice, and emotional support.

We provide educational workshops and training programs for families, caregivers, and professionals. These sessions cover various aspects of Alzheimer’s care, including disease understanding, communication techniques, behavior management, and safety measures, equipping families with the knowledge they need to provide care.

Recognizing the physical and emotional toll on caregivers, we offer resources specifically designed to support caregivers’ well-being. This includes stress management techniques, respite care information, and wellness activities to help caregivers maintain their health and resilience.

Our social workers offer personalized consultations to help families navigate the challenges of Alzheimer’s, from understanding the diagnosis to planning long-term care. They assist with practical advice on legal and financial issues, care planning, and accessing community resources.

For individuals with Alzheimer’s who may wander, we provide a safety program that includes identification products, emergency response services, and educational resources to prevent wandering incidents and ensure a quick, safe return if an individual does go missing.

We also connect families with a broad network of community resources, including legal, financial, medical, and home care services, ensuring that families have access to the support they need at every stage of the disease.

Lastly, we advocate for Alzheimer’s research, care, and support at the local and state levels.

By providing these different kinds of support, CaringKind wants to ease some of the challenges families face with Alzheimer’s. We give them the tools, information, and community they need to handle the disease with dignity and optimism.

You are a successful leader. Which three-character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? We would love to hear a few stories or examples.

Understanding and connecting with patients and their families is key in my role as a healthcare leader. I empathize deeply with their challenges, especially in cases like Alzheimer’s. Building this personal connection creates a supportive atmosphere where compassionate decisions can be made, patient care can be improved, and my team can be supported through tough times.

Resilience is vital in the healthcare sector, especially when dealing with chronic conditions such as Alzheimer’s. As a CEO, I need resilience to tackle obstacles, setbacks, and the emotional toll of the job. It helps me stay committed to providing quality care, motivates my team during tough moments, and allows me to adapt to changes with a positive outlook.

Forward-thinking is also crucial in effective healthcare leadership. I must go beyond current challenges to envision innovative solutions that enhance care and patient outcomes. Anticipating future trends, embracing new technologies, and inspiring others to join me in improving healthcare delivery are all part of my vision.

By combining these qualities with my professional expertise and ethical standards, I’m able to make meaningful contributions to the healthcare field, particularly in specialized areas like Alzheimer’s care.

What makes you feel passionate about this cause more than any other?
I feel grateful to be part of a field where I can make a meaningful impact as a leader. Every day, I’m driven by a vision of a future where discussions about aging and brain health are inclusive and widespread. The complexity of Alzheimer’s, both scientifically and socially, inspired my passion for
finding solutions and driving innovation in healthcare. Making a real difference in the lives of Alzheimer’s patients and their families is a significant motivator for me as well.

What is the encouragement/advice you wish you had been given when starting out?
I wish someone had told me to explore different opportunities before settling on a career path. It’s important to gain experience through internships before diving into the professional world. Trust your instincts and don’t let anyone discourage you from pursuing your passion due to their own biases. Surround yourself with active community members who bring positive energy. And if you feel that inner calling to make a difference, support causes that align with your values. I’m a firm believer in the power of caregiving and I strive for a world where everyone affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia has the support they need, exactly when they need it.

To learn more about CaringKind, please go to our website: www.caringkindnyc.org.