Dr. John Zeisel Honored with 2025 McKnight’s Pinnacle Thought Leader Award

Celebrating a visionary in dementia care whose innovative approaches continue to inspire hope and transformation. 

We are proud to announce that Dr. John Zeisel, founder and CEO of the I’m Still Here Foundation, has been honored with the 2025 McKnight’s Pinnacle Awards’ Thought Leader Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates his decades-long commitment to revolutionizing dementia care through nonpharmacologic, person-centered approaches.

Dr. Zeisel's groundbreaking "I’m Still Here" methodology integrates arts, culture, music, community engagement, and physical activity to enhance the lives of individuals living with Alzheimer's and other dementia-related diseases. His work has shifted public perceptions from despair to hope, emphasizing the potential for meaningful engagement at every stage of the disease.

Susan Law, Executive Director of the I’m Still Here Foundation, noted in her nomination, “John’s work has shifted public beliefs and perceptions about Alzheimer’s disease from one of despair to one of hope.”

Beyond his foundational work, Dr. Zeisel is also the president of Hopeful Aging and the author of the bestselling book I’m Still Here: A New Philosophy of Alzheimer’s Care. His YouTube series, “Hopeful Aging with Dr. John Zeisel,” further disseminates his insights and approaches to a broader audience.

The McKnight’s Pinnacle Awards, jointly administered by McKnight’s Long-Term Care News, McKnight’s Senior Living, and McKnight’s Home Care, recognized Dr. Zeisel at a ceremony on March 20, 2025, in Chicago. This accolade adds to his 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Academy for Design and Health, underscoring his enduring impact on the field.

Dr. Zeisel's dedication continues to inspire caregivers, professionals, and families worldwide, reaffirming the belief that those living with dementia can lead lives filled with purpose and connection.