Meet Latia, our Newest Team Member

 A self-proclaimed “Jean of all trades,” Latia has a career background in film, journalism, behavior therapy, education, and assistive technology. She’s been a caregiver for most of her life, and she’s an artist who’s always up for a new project or challenge. We can’t wait to share her perspectives on creativity and the blogs about caregiving life! Get to know her better here.

What’s one of your favorite activities that might surprise people?

There are so many activities I’m always getting into, but the one that surprises people the most is roller derby. I love roller derby because it has given me the courage to be who I am and to expand my creativity. It helped me break out of my quiet shell—as I’m a mixture of both introvert and extrovert.

Give us a snapshot of your caregiving experiences/story.

I have been a caregiver pretty much all my life in many different capacities. My parents divorced when I was 13 years old, and as the oldest, I had to help care for my brother and sister, which then moved on to babysitting neighborhood kids, and when I was older, I’d care for my friends’ children when they had to work overnight.

In high school, I volunteered on my lunch and study breaks to work in a life skills classroom. There, I helped older students with special needs work on Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).

Nurturing and being a caregiver has come naturally in my life. 

Latia Johnson

I was a preschool teacher and cared for children ranging from 9 months to 1 year old, as well as a nanny and personal care aide to a little boy with autism. The list goes on and on! Nurturing and being a caregiver has just come naturally in my life. 

Currently my mother and I care for my sister who has multiple sclerosis (MS), and for my beautiful niece (my brother’s daughter).

What’s your favorite beverage and why?

My favorite beverage is an Arnold Palmer. It’s half lemonade and half iced tea. I love this drink because it reminds me of summertime and learning how to take things slow in a fast-paced world.

What’s your work experience as it relates to caregiving?

Just recently I was a special education assistant at the elementary level for children with autism. I am now a Tech Support specialist and one of my duties will be to serve as a liaison for the special education department, because of my background and experience.

What’s your work experience as it relates to creativity?

I have a background in journalism and digital film and video production and try to incorporate creativity into my life any way I can—whether it’s working with students to create projects, or joining a maker space and learning how to laser cut. I have many artistic talents and I love collecting new skills to enhance and cultivate my creative life. 

Why are you excited to be part of the CGA team?

I’ve been following their work for so long and love reading the life hacks, and hearing about how others care for their loved ones. I have so many ideas and things I have tried over the years with the wonderful people I’ve had the opportunity to care for. I’d love to share those insights with others and hope it can help them too.

Latia Johnson will add her creative talents, seasoned caregiver perspective, and amazing technical expertise to the growing Caregiving Advice team.

Please give her a warm welcome and stay tuned for a whole new line of creative caregiving services & resources she’s helping us launch!