Dancing Through Dementia: A Journey of Joyful Caregiving

From a young age, Mica Saunders developed a deep respect and heartfelt connection with the elderly — a bond sparked by afternoons spent accompanying her mother to work at an assisted living home. Watching her mom care for residents with dignity and kindness planted the seeds of understanding, empathy, and purpose that would shape the course of Mica’s life.

That early exposure didn’t just inspire Mica — it empowered her. Fueled by a desire to bring joy, movement, and mental stimulation to older adults, she launched Moxie Movez, a vibrant wellness initiative that combines brain games and physical activity to help seniors keep their mojo, stay sharp, and feel energized. Whether it’s a chair dance routine or a lively memory game, Moxie Movez is all about celebrating vitality at every age.

But Mica’s journey took on deeper personal meaning when both of her beloved grandmothers, Daisy and Florence, were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Suddenly, the knowledge she had cultivated professionally became a lifeline in her own caregiving experience. With patience and grace, she navigated the heartbreak of watching her grandmother Daisy forget who she was — choosing compassion over sorrow, presence over frustration. And with Florence, she found light even in the darkest days, creating joyful dance videos together and turning ordinary moments into magical ones — “like making every day feel like a birthday,” as Mica says.

Today, Mica shares her story not just to inspire, but to equip others. Through her work and voice, she offers practical tools, emotional insight, and heartfelt encouragement to caregivers walking the same path — helping families feel less alone and more empowered as they support loved ones living with dementia.

Mica’s story is one of resilience, joy, and purpose — a reminder that with creativity, patience, and love, we can meet even the toughest moments with grace and a little bit of moxie.