Neurology Pathways: Monica Moore, M.S.G.

Monica's Pathway:

What are some influential moments in your career journey? How did these help you get to where you are today?

One of the most influential days of my career was the day I walked through the doors of the Alzheimer's Association at the start of my Master's internship. That day was the beginning of my career in Alzheimer's education and caregiver support. It was a realization of my dream to work in the field of Alzheimer's disease; I felt like I made it! Since that moment 24 years ago, I have had many influential moments that have shaped my career trajectory, but most importantly, it is the people I have met along the way who have been the most influential. The family caregivers who so freely welcomed me into their lives, the doctors who taught me to navigate complex medical terminology and speak with confidence, and the community members who gave their time to listen to my talks and learn about brain health and dementia—each person has played a vital role in bringing me to where I am today.

What motivates you in your work at the UCLA Easton Center?

The real motivation behind my work at the Easton Center and the Alzheimer's disease field is my grandmother, Rose, who passed away from Alzheimer's in 1999. She was such an integral part of my formation as a person so after her passing, I knew I had to find meaningful work to honor her legacy. Working with family caregivers also allows me to honor my mom who was my grandmother's primary caregiver. I have witnessed firsthand how family caregivers carry the emotional, financial, and physical burden of this disease and hopefully, by listening and showing support, I am able to alleviate some of the load.

What is your favorite part of working as the Community Health Program Manager at the UCLA Easton Center?

Community education is the foundation of all of our work at the UCLA Easton Center. Community education allows for people to know we exist, to learn about the work of our researchers, that we provide top notch medical care, and that we strive to be a place of excellence for those affected by Alzheimer's. Education is the key to early diagnosis, early intervention, increased clinical trial participation and proper clinical care. I can talk dementia and caregiving all day long and am always excited to have the opportunity to sit down and share with whoever will listen.

I love the work I do in the community and I love meeting new people. No two education events are ever the same and to be honest, sometimes this aspect of my job doesn't even feel like work.

You just celebrated 10 years of service at the UCLA Easton Center! What are you most proud of during that time?

During my 10 years at the Easton Center I have helped grow our caregiver support groups from 1 to 10. I am proud of the disease specific group we offer (DLB, FTD, EOAD) and the relationship focused groups (adult children, young adult children, and spouse) we created to focus on the unique needs of these populations. The groups are a lifeline for members, as they are a safe space to share frustrations and sadness while learning about resources and creating friendships. The groups are a place where members know others "get it". Alzheimer's is an isolating disease, and caregivers often feel that they are the only ones on the journey. These groups remind caregivers that they are not alone and I am so proud to offer this space of support.

Education is a core focus of the Easton Center. What are your goals for dementia education in LA?

My mission for dementia education in LA can be viewed as a grassroots movement. Every time I speak, I ask attendees to do one thing: share what they learned with at least one other person, and then ask that person to do the same. This isn't information to keep to yourself; it's how we make change. To truly raise awareness, reduce stigma, and impact our community, we all need to take these small steps and open up these crucial conversations. 

My ultimate goal? To have every community organization, business, church, synagogue, even pickleball club in Los Angeles understand the importance of dementia and brain health education and to invite me to speak! I want a calendar packed with invitations from all over! Because Alzheimer's isn't just an aging concern; it's a critical issue for our government, our communities, and every family. We need to embrace conversations about aging and cognitive changes, and these events are the perfect starting point. I look forward to the 'problem' where we need to hire more staff, transforming the Easton Center Outreach Core into a truly multilingual effort that impacts lives across LA.

How do you spend your time outside of work? What is your favorite hobby?

My favorite hobby? Definitely, hanging out with my dog, George. We love to hike, explore the pet friendly trails in National Parks, take road trips, and enjoy our place in nature. Sometimes, if they are lucky, we even invite my husband and teenage kids to tag along!