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CADDCT of the Year: Melissa Long

The National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners awarded their Certified Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Trainer (CADDCT) of the year to Melissa Long, our Director of Education and Support!

Melissa was nominated for CADDCT of the Year by our team at Insight Memory Care Center, where she serves as the Director of Education, helping to support families in Northern Virginia living with Dementia. Her work aims to ensure that everyone with dementia feels comfortable seeking the resources they need to care for their loved ones safely and free from judgement. Part of Melissa’s responsibilities are to bring dementia education opportunities to a wide audience at our Early Stage Center in Loudoun, the main office in Fairfax, as well as online. This past year she has worked to open the aging communities’ eyes to the challenges that face an aging LGBTQ+ population. She also works closely with care partners and their loved ones with dementia that are seeking community resources and the tools to be the best care partners possible. She takes the time to connect with everyone she meets, and her genuine care and compassion are evident in the relationships and trust she inspires. Melissa was instrumental in establishing the first LGBTQ+ support group for those caring for their partner with dementia. The virtual group has been operating for more than a year now and provides a valuable touch point for these care partners.

“Melissa is the perfect combination of empathy and resolve. She works tirelessly to help others in need and does so with gentleness and compassion. My patients trust her for guidance, even in times of chaotic distress. Melissa’s genuine care for others shines through her communications, follow-up, and creative problem solving. I am privileged to work with someone as talented as she is, and I know that her service has changed the lives of many.”

-Jennifer Pauldurai, MD, MS, Cognitive Behavioral Neurology, Inova Neurosciences

Melissa teaches the Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) program to local professionals each quarter and is commended often in reviews for her compassion, breadth of knowledge and willingness to help. More than one has come back to her seeking further advice as they trust her judgement. She has also taken time this year to bring free education opportunities to the community both virtual and in- person, partnering with organizations like AARP and the Alzheimer’s Association to have frank and open discussions about the challenges for anyone living with dementia. Her compassion and empathy are part of her personality but for those she works with each day, it is so much more. It’s finding hope on a journey that so often doesn’t offer any. 

For example, a couple came to Insight looking for support after one partner was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s. The couple initially completed our SHARE program, an evidence-based program that provides families with a recent dementia diagnosis with a straightforward and structured way to plan for future needs. During those important discussions the diagnosed partner was very adamant in her reluctance to join Insight’s Reconnections early-stage program or other supportive care. Melissa recognized this reluctance and took the time to develop a rapport with her, establishing a trusting relationship. Eventually she agreed to a trial day at the Reconnections program in Sterling. When Melissa saw her the next day, she was all smiles and shared with her “I have found my people!” During her almost six months participating weekly in the Reconnections program, she formed a close friendship with another female participant. Their disease progression was on a similar path and both were ready for the transition to the Day Center program. They transferred together making what can be a challenging transition to a higher level of care far easier for them and their loved ones. Their friendship has continued, and they are both thriving in their new program. All because of the connection they found in Insight’s early-stage Reconnections program and Melissa’s compassion.

Melissa became a Certified Dementia Practitioner in 2021, and a Certified Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Trainer in 2022. She also holds a certification as a Certified Dementia Support Group Facilitator (CDSGF). 

Melissa's unwavering dedication to dementia education and support is a beacon for both families and professionals alike. Her compassion, combined with her expertise, has made a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals navigating the challenges of dementia. Whether she is empowering care partners through education or creating a safe, welcoming space for individuals with dementia, Melissa continues to inspire and make a tangible difference. Her recognition as the CADDCT of the Year is a well-deserved testament to her tireless efforts and the deep empathy she brings to her work every day!

Congratulations Melissa!

This article was originally published on NCCDP's website. 
Learn more about the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners!