Meet the Instructor

Anita Souza

Clinical Professor, UW School of Nursing

Anita Souza is a nursing science researcher at the University of Washington’s School of Nursing. Her research addresses the care and support of older adults across the cognitive continuum, including those in the early stages of memory loss. Specifically, she focuses on the psychosocial and health care needs of those with cognitive decline who live alone and reside in the community.

Souza has helped develop and deliver educational programs to older adults living with dementia and has counseled individuals and families on dementia-related care issues. Her most recent work focuses on understanding the needs and challenges of providing care to homeless older adults with cognitive impairment, including social network factors (mobility, housing, family and friend networks) that contribute to healthcare access and the association with chronic disease and cognitive health.

Prior to joining the UW faculty, Souza worked at the Alzheimer’s Association, where she developed early-stage dementia educational programs. She holds a bachelor’s degree in gerontology from the University of Massachusetts, Boston, and a Ph.D. from the University of Washington.