This month, we are revisiting a conversation about caregiving during the holidays. We hope you are enjoying this time of year with family and friends, but we also know this season can bring additional stress, new challenges, and the need to change expectations.

Please remember, our team is here to help you navigate your caregiving journey. Connect with us at SCRC.CARE or by calling 858.268.4432. From all of us at SCRC, we wish you and your loved ones a joyous holiday season.

In this month's episode, Roberto and Martha chat with Peter Alo, Community Service Supervisor at Greenwood Memorial Cemetery, Mortuary and Crematory. Listen to their discussion about the first steps for funeral planning, and how to approach the day similar to wedding planning. Peter discusses the importance of honoring traditions, customs, and religious practices, discussing wishes ahead of time, and considering what you want as a caregiver for your own arrangements.

Keywords: caregiving, funeral planning, burial, end of life costs, life insurance, military

In this month’s episode of Let’s Talk Caregiving, Roberto and Marta speak with Cheryll Kidd, a registered dental hygienist in alternative practice who was inspired by her caregiving journey to create a portable dental hygiene service for older adults and people with disabilities. Together, they explore the often-overlooked connection between oral health and overall well-being, especially in those living with dementia. Cheryl shares how poor oral hygiene can lead to serious health conditions—and why caregivers need support, education, and access to services that meet patients where they are. You’ll also hear practical tips and tools caregivers can use to improve oral care at home.

Keywords: oral health and dementia, caregiving challenges, portable dental care, elder hygiene, dental health equity

In this month’s episode of Let’s Talk Caregiving, Roberto and Martha sit down with Dr. Michelle Jackson, director at Point Loma Nazarene University, to explore health equity, dementia research, and the lived experiences of Black women at risk for Alzheimer’s. Dr. Jackson shares the goals of her groundbreaking community-based research study—BWITS (Black Women Inflammation and Tau Study)—and why culturally sensitive, accessible programs are crucial in both advancing dementia science and supporting family caregivers. The conversation dives deep into stigma, stress, trust in healthcare, and how community partnerships are transforming the future of dementia care.

Keywords: dementia research, health equity, Alzheimer's, caregiving stress, community-based care

In this month’s episode of Let’s Talk Caregiving, Roberto and Marta sit down with Jocelyn Protopappas, Manager of Special Projects at SDSU’s Center for Excellence in Aging & Longevity (CEAL). Together, they dive into what it means to redefine aging, from inclusive city planning and caregiver empowerment to the importance of maintaining social connections later in life. Jocelyn also introduces CEAL’s Community Call Hub—a program matching socially isolated older adults and caregivers with friendly callers to reduce loneliness and provide human connection. Whether you're supporting a loved one or shaping the future of age-friendly communities, this conversation offers insight, resources, and real hope.

Keywords: caregiver support, aging in community, social isolation, community call programs, age-friendly initiatives

In this month's episode, Roberto and Marta chat with Faezeh Nemati, VP of Operations at ComForCare in North San Diego. Listen to their discussion about the emotional and logistical challenges of relocating a loved one, navigating transitions in care, and how programs like transitional and respite care can offer vital support to overwhelmed families.

Keywords: caregiving transitions, respite care, dementia support, relocation stress, family caregivers, home care services.

In this month's episode, Roberto and Martha chat with Kelly Peters, Vice President of Community Impact at Rancho Coastal Humane Society. Listen to their discussion about the powerful connection between caregiving and pet companionship, highlighting programs that keep seniors and their beloved pets together. From pet-assisted therapy to senior adoption programs, learn how Rancho Coastal is supporting caregivers and spreading joy through furry friends.

Keywords: caregiving, pet-assisted therapy, seniors, companionship, rancho coastal humane society

In this month's episode, Roberto and Martha chat with Giselle, a bilingual lead clinician and Associate Director at the Cohen Clinic at Veteran Village of San Diego. Listen to their discussion about supporting military families, breaking mental health stigma, and the vital role of caregivers. Together, they explore how accessible, culturally sensitive, and collaborative care can empower hidden heroes across generations.

Keywords: military caregivers, mental health support, PTSD, veteran families, telehealth services, caregiver resources