Show Notes
What if learning about dementia started before a family ever had to face it?
In this episode, Andrew Karesa sits down with Maura Jahangiri, Miss Canada 2026, and dementia advocate, to explore why she believes dementia education should begin with children and how her own experience with her grandfather changed the direction of her life.
Maura was around 16 when her grandfather was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Having grown up with little understanding of dementia beyond memory loss, she remembers how frightening it was to watch his behaviour change and eventually see him move into long-term care.
Maura shares her goal as Miss Canada 2026: bringing dementia education into elementary schools. She explains why she believes introducing children to dementia earlier could reduce fear and stigma, help families navigate a future diagnosis, and encourage a new generation to become involved in dementia care.
In this episode: How Maura’s grandfather’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis shaped her advocacy What it was like experiencing dementia as a teenager The difficult decision to move her grandfather into long-term care Why she started working with people living with dementia What “The Power of Presence” means in dementia care Why people living with dementia should never be treated like children What she has learned working in memory care and assisted living How music and meaningful activities can reach people living with dementia Why burnout and understaffing can affect the quality of care Maura’s push to bring dementia education into elementary schools How Miss Canada has given her a platform to advocate for change What dignity, autonomy, and respect should look like in dementia care
This is a conversation about dementia, family, grief, education, dignity, and the power that simply showing up can have in another person’s life.
Learn more at: https://www.bluebellvillage.ca https://www.instagram.com/powerofpresence_/
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This episode is brought to you by Eugeria. Check out their website for dementia products you can trust.
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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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