Social worker Johanna Johnson is helping bridge the gap between families and support during one of life’s most difficult journeys—caring for a loved one living with dementia. As a facilitator for a newly launched support group in Ketchikan with the Alzheimer’s Association, Johanna is planting seeds of connection that will continue to grow for years to come.
Johanna’s path to volunteering began after hearing Michelle Larson, Associate Director of Progams for the Alzheimer’s Association Alaska Chpater, speak at an event hosted by the University of Alaska Southeast. The message resonated deeply, and the two stayed in touch. Soon after, Johanna stepped into the volunteer role that felt like a natural extension of the work she already does.
“I’m the social worker at an assisted living home here in Ketchikan,” she shares. “I had the idea to start a support group specifically for the spouses of our residents.”
That support group met for the first time on April 7. While it’s still in the early stages, Johanna is hopeful it will grow into a vital resource for local families.
“I look forward to being a reliable resource that people in the community can refer to when families are struggling,” she says.
Johanna brings a grounded, compassionate lens to her work. Her passion and focus lies in helping people navigate the day-to-day realities of aging, caregiving and moving loved ones into assisted care.
“Yes, it can be really sad—but it also brings out the best in people. I see that in the families, the staff, and the community,” she says.
“Being a resource to families who are struggling is life-changing.” Johanna offers a steady presence for spouses and family members wrestling with the decision to move their loved one into care. “I always tell families that placing a loved one in a home is the saddest part of the process. But once they’re here, they become part of a busy, loving home and all the big stressors that the families were feeling regarding caregiving are taken off their plate. ”
Johanna and her team care deeply for their residents, from the everyday joys to the tender moments in people’s final days. “We do a lot of special things here,” she says. “I am proud to be a part of this process and know that we are honoring each of the individuals who live here. I think the support group is all a part of this process.”
During National Volunteer Week, we’re proud to shine a light on Johanna’s work. Her empathy, leadership, and strength are helping to build a more compassionate future for families in Ketchikan and beyond.
Thank you, Johanna, for being a source of support and understanding for those who need it most.
Get Involved
Looking to volunteer in your local community through education programs, support groups, fundrasing events and more? Check out ways you can get involved in the fight to #ENDALZ with the Alzheimer’s Association Alaska Chpater here.
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