As Associate Chief of Geriatrics and Palliative Care, Lauri cares for older adults in their homes and in the community, wherever they reside. She believes in practicing healthcare through a nursing lens. “This means that while I diagnose and treat various chronic and acute conditions, I do so with the focus on the entire person, their family, their environment, and their physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness,” she explains. “In working with my patients, I strive to facilitate individuality, equality, spiritually, and the highest level of health and quality of life.”

Lauri began her career in healthcare as a licensed practical nurse, advancing to a registered nurse, and became a nurse practitioner to provide holistic healthcare that has a positive impact on older adults, their family, and the community. She also provides palliative care and end of life care. “I have always had passion and reverence for older adults. The average age of my patients is late 80s up through 100 years old,” she explains. “I learn something every day from my patients about life, resilience, history, love, loss, marriage, community, families, and dignity.”

In addition to caring for patients, Lauri is completing her PhD in nursing research which focuses on adults 85 years and older. “I am very passionate about this population of patients. However, I am equally passionate about education and strengthening the science of nursing, including educating future nurses, nurse practitioners, and the public at large about the science of nursing.”

When she is not busy with patients, Lauri enjoys spending time with her family, vacationing near the ocean, exercising, and being with friends.