Show Notes
What if we could build a world that works better for people living with dementia?
In this episode, Andrew Karesa sits down with Valerie Larochelle, CEO and co-founder of Eugeria, to explore how better products, technology, environments, and communities can help people living with dementia maintain independence, autonomy, and quality of life.
Valerie’s work is deeply personal. Three of her four grandparents experienced cognitive impairment, including Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. She shares what those experiences taught her about the difference between living with dementia and suffering from it, the realities families face navigating care, and why a dementia diagnosis does not mean that joy and meaningful life disappear.
Together, Andrew and Valerie explore how dementia care can move beyond simply monitoring people toward actually supporting them. Valerie explains how thoughtfully designed technologies, from adapted phones and calendar clocks to medication dispensers and emerging AI tools, can compensate for cognitive changes and help people continue doing things for themselves.
They also discuss the importance of bringing generations together, why children should not automatically be shielded from dementia, and what Valerie has learned from introducing her own children to family members living with cognitive impairment.
In this episode: Valerie’s family experience with Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia The difference between living with dementia and suffering from dementia Why dementia can look different for every family How Eugeria identifies and tests products for people living with dementia Why dementia technology should support independence, not just monitor people How cognitive aids can help people remain at home longer The potential for AI to compensate for cognitive changes Why children should be included in the lives of people living with dementia The importance of intergenerational communities Why Valerie believes there can still be joy and quality of life with dementia How LEGO, design, and creativity could play a role in building a better world for aging
This is a conversation about dementia, caregiving, innovation, independence, family, technology, and what it might look like to build a world designed to support people as their needs change, without losing sight of the person at the centre of it all.
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Disclaimer: This podcast is for general information only, not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider about your health. In an emergency, contact local emergency services. Guests’ views are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Andrew Karesa or blueBell Village Ltd. Third-party references are for information only, not endorsements. You use this podcast at your own risk. Andrew Karesa, blueBell Village Ltd., and their team are not liable for any loss, injury, or damage arising from its use.
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