Erin and Chris Bonitto, Gemini Consulting

Midwesterner Erin Bonitto and metropolitan New Yorker-turned-Minnesotan Chris Bonitto are two halves of the same coin, adding value to the long-term and Alzheimer’s - dementia care conversation as consultants and educators.   

Twin long-term care philosophy

Both Erin and Chris believe that it is important to move the long-term care profession from a traditional medical model of care to one of life enrichment. To this end, they have committed their accumulated knowledge, experience, and individual talents to offer – through Gemini Consulting – consultative and speaking services designed to assist long-term care professionals. 

Individualized, collaborative roles

In 1998 at Chris’ urging, Erin began conducting workshops as “Gemini Consulting,” and in 1999 left her position as Alzheimer’s Unit Director to entirely devote herself to the business.  Since then the two have combined their expertise. Erin has made over 300 appearances in 45 states and conducted long-term care consultations in 15 states. Chris serves as a co-trainer, co-presenter, and business manager.

Recognition in the long-term care field

The New York State Department of Health began working with Erin in 2006, implementing her “Life Enrichment Program” in four nursing homes; in 2005 it awarded a “Patient Safety Award” to a nursing home that had implemented her “Alzheimer’s Lounge” concept, when it was found to significantly reduce falls.  In 2007, Provider magazine featured Erin's Life Enrichment System as an example of innovative memory care.


Qualifications

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Erin Bonitto (M.S., A.D.C.) began her career at age 16 as a dietary aide in her small hometown nursing home, eventually securing a B.A. degree in Psychology from the University of Minnesota – Morris, an M.S. degree in Gerontology from the Univeristy of Missouri – St. Louis, and her Activity Director Certification – N.C.C.A.P.  In 1997 Erin was honored by Care Providers of Minnesota as “Employee of the Year” for her efforts to construct innovative resident programs.  A nationally-acclaimed speaker, Erin is also the innovator of Life Enrichment Systems for dementia.


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Chris Bonitto (L.N.H.A.) spent most of his earlier years on Long Island and considers himself a New Yorker, although he’s lived in Minnesota for 30 years.  A licensed nursing home Administrator with over 10 years of experience, Chris’ formal training includes a B.S. degree in Political Science/Psychology and a Masters in Public Administration (M.P.A.) from the University of South Dakota – Vermillion. 

He received his Long-Term Care Administration education at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn. In 1997 Chris was recognized by the Minnesota State Wide Association of Activity Professionals as “Administrator of the Year” for his efforts to bring new life into the nursing home experience. Chris’ “Main Street Concept” and other quality-of-life programs have been featured in the print and television media.