Dr. Maria D’Souza is a geriatrician who brings special expertise in dementia care and caregiver support to JFS. Dr. D’Souza participated in the development and evaluation of an innovative multidisciplinary dementia care program during a geriatrics fellowship at Duke University, which she published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. One of only 7,500 geriatricians in the US, Dr. D’Souza previously served as Medical Director of a PACE program, enabling older adults with complex medical and social needs to continue living in their own homes. She has 15 years of experience providing holistic medical care for older adults in a variety of settings including primary care, acute hospital care, nursing facilities, assisted living, memory care units, house calls, and hospice and palliative care.
A graduate of the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Dr. D’Souza completed her residency training in internal medicine at the University of Washington, a 3-year geriatrics fellowship at Duke University, and a Masters of Public Health degree at the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill. She is a member of the medical staff at ChristianaCare.
Dr. D’Souza is thrilled to be part of the JFS mission of strengthening individuals, families, and the community as Medical Director of the JFS COMPASS program, providing team-based medical care for individuals with dementia and guiding families through their journey.
“My patients and their families often tell me how much they value the way I listen. Each older adult has a unique story that I am passionate about hearing and honoring in order to provide true person-centered care. Discussing individual values and goals allows us to formulate a plan of care together and partner with all members of the care team to achieve those goals. Geriatrics is a team sport!”
Amie works passionately with older adults and their families in our community. With the help of her corps of volunteers, she supports clients all across the spectrum, whether it is food delivery, rides for medical appointments, tech support for video calls, helping to return home after hospitalization, or just a friendly call to talk about grandchildren or the weather.
“They inspire and motivate me every day to be present, compassionate, patient, and kind,” she says.
Amie has had several careers in her life including camp counselor, television producer, administrator at a preschool, and, now, working with older adults.
“They all require patience, enthusiasm, quick-thinking, and a sense of humor,” Amie shares. “There is never a boring day when you are of service to the community!”
Amie has been married for 17 years to Bob Hronsky; they have a son named Ethan who is the light of their lives!
Kate is a geriatric social worker with a Bachelors Degree in Social Work from Ohio University. She has experience working with diverse populations and spent a large part of her career working in supportive housing for adults with mental health and/or substance use disorders; most recently, Kate served as the Social Services Director in a long-term care setting, which introduced her to JFS’ services. Kate is part of the JFS COMPASS and Care Navigation teams to provide personalized support to older adults and individuals with dementia and their caregivers.
Kate is originally from Ohio and has also lived in Connecticut, Maryland, and now Delaware. She is married and has two young sons. In her spare time, Kate enjoys rowing, hiking, photography, and being outside.
Ms. Salters is the Residential Senior Coordinator for Jewish Family Services. Sa’Myia’s charismatic, empathetic, and energetic personality helps our clients feel comfortable receiving the services that we provide and making better choices for their lives.
Sa’Myia has worked directly with our elder residents at B’nai Brith House as their on site Social Worker for the past three years. By working directly in the building where our clients reside, Sa’Myia is accessible to help the seniors with transportation needs, food insecurities, budgeting, mental and emotional wellness, connecting to community services and other challenges that affect elder life domains.
As a Residential Senior Coordinator, Sa’Myia also plans regularly facilitated group events that are offered to the seniors, which will help to increase socialization and prevent isolation. Sa’Myia has done exceptionally well at partnering with nearby agencies that can provide our elders with in home care and medical sustainability. Our mission is to ensure that the elders of B’nai Brith House can remain independent and comfortable in their homes for as long as possible.
Ms. Salters is a proud alumni of Delaware State University’s “Hornet Nation” with a Master’s degree in Social Work.
Her favorite quote comes from the great Maya Angelou:
“Nothing can dim the light which shines from within.”
David, a Care Manager with JFS, is a Registered Nurse with a BS in Nursing and a Master’s in Business Administration. His career includes a variety of staff, management and administrative positions in both hospital and long-term care settings. Prior to joining the JFS team, David served as the Director of Nursing with an Assisted Living Community in Hockessin, Delaware.