End of Year Reflection: Why I Do What I Do
As we come to the close of another year, I find myself reflecting on why I do this work - and what continues to inspire me every day.
For nearly two decades, I’ve been privileged to work as an Occupational Therapist specialising in dementia and later life support, and I’m constantly reminded that even in the face of change, people can find meaning, confidence and joy in everyday life. My focus has always been on what matters most - helping individuals steer through a dementia diagnosis or life transition with clarity, calm and connection.
One of the greatest honours of this work is seeing someone rediscover their confidence - noticing they can still do more than they first believed, getting back to favourite hobbies, or simply feeling more in control of their day. Those moments, where someone says “I didn’t think I could do this anymore… but I can,” are the moments that make everything worthwhile.
I’m also grateful for the lightbulb moments I see among care staff and teams. In training and consultancy sessions, when people pause, reconsider assumptions, and bring their kindest, most person-centred selves to work - that transformation ripples out to every individual and family they support. Practical tools and shared reflections don’t just inform practice - they ignite confidence and compassion in those who want to make a real difference.
The environments we live, work and care in matter hugely. Thoughtful, dementia-inclusive spaces - whether in people’s homes, care settings, or community places - help people feel independent, comfortable and at ease. When spaces support orientation, safety and familiarity, individuals can engage more fully with life, and families and carers feel more confident too.
And speaking of families - I see time and again how much they yearn to support their loved ones well, while also trying to care for themselves. Strengthening family confidence, offering clarity around communication, and building routines that reduce stress and enhance connection are core parts of what I do. Creating realistic, compassionate strategies helps families feel supported, resilient and hopeful.
Looking ahead to the new year, my commitment remains the same: to offer practical, person-centred support that enables people to live well, thrive where they are, and feel genuinely seen and heard. If you, your team or your organisation would like support with confidence building, dementia-inclusive environments, or training that transforms care, I’d be delighted to connect. Let’s make 2026 a year of even greater clarity, compassion and possibility.