Faculty/Staff Elder Care

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Accessibility/Accommodation Requirements

If you require an accommodation for effective communication (ASL interpreting/CART captioning, alternative media formats, etc.) or information about campus mobility access features in order to fully participate in these offerings, please contact Karen Patchell at kpatchell@berkeley.edu with as much advance notice as possible (at least 3–5 days in advance of the event).

In-Person Event: Self-Compassion for Family Caregivers

Wednesday, August 19th, Noon - 1:30 pm

In-Person at the Tang Center

Speaker: Natasha Boissier, Elder Care Counselor

Caregiving is a journey of profound dedication, but it often comes with significant emotional and physical challenges that can leave you feeling depleted. To support your well-being, we invite you to join our upcoming summer series event designed specifically for family and friend caregivers. We will explore Self-Compassion—a powerful, evidence-based tool that can help you navigate the complexities of your role with greater resilience, presence, and kindness toward yourself. This workshop will be experiential in that we will practice simple, accessible techniques together, allowing you to integrate these calming practices directly into your daily caregiving routine. This workshop will be in person at the Tang Center.

Register

Elder Care Current Workshops

The Elder Care program offers monthly educational workshops and webinars on topics related to aging and caregiving presented by professionals and peer advocates. 

ENROLLMENT

UC Berkeley and LBNL Faculty, Staff, Visiting Scholars, and Postdocs:

  1. Click on the "date" or "enroll" hyperlink to the UCB Learning Center.
  2. Enter your CalNet Passphrase.
  3. Click "Submit."

Fall 2026 Workshops 

Putting Your Affairs in Order

Tuesday, September 22nd; Noon – 1:30 pm, via Zoom 

Speaker: Anna Le Mon, LCSW, Director of Care Management, Senior Alternatives

This session is designed to empower older adults and their care partners with tools to plan well and support dialogue around tough conversations. A process will be shared that provides clarity and peace mind for all parties involved when it comes to organizing your medical care and legal wishes. Anna will review detailed information on the following topics:  1. Organizing Key Documents: Learn practical strategies to ensure important paperwork is easily accessible and well-structured such as trusts and health care directives. 2. Navigating Sensitive Conversations: Gain guidance on how to approach meaningful and respectful discussions about sensitive topics related to aging.

Register

Preventing Scams Targeting Older & Dependent Adults

Tuesday, October 27th, Noon - 1:30 pm, via Zoom 

Speaker: Cassie Villar, APS San Mateo

Cassie Villar is an Adult Protective Services (APS) Training & Outreach Specialist with the County of San Mateo. She will speak about Scams Targeting Older & Dependent Adults and give tips on how to avoid becoming a victim. Mrs. Villar will also discuss elder and dependent adult abuse and give a multidisciplinary approach to helping victims of neglect and/or crime.

Register

Navigating Resources to Age in Place

Tuesday, November 10th; Noon – 1:30 pm, via Zoom 

Speaker: Natasha Boissier, LCSW - Elder Care Counselor - Be Well At Work

Helping a loved one age with dignity at home shouldn’t feel like a solo journey. Join us as we break down the primary government and community resources available to help seniors stay safe and comfortable in their own residences. We’ll also dedicate time to  highlighting the training and support networks available to family caregivers.

Register

Tuning In Together: Using Music to Navigate Caregiving

Tuesday, December 15th; Noon - 1:30 pm, via Zoom

Speaker: Dr. Barbara Milton, PhD

This workshop explores the healing potential of music for both caregivers and their loved ones. Drawing from neuroscience, psychology, and lived clinical experience, psychologist and musician Barbara Minton will discuss how music affects the brain, supports emotional regulation, reduces stress, enhances connection, and can create moments of presence and meaning even in the midst of caregiving demands. She will be joined by her colleague, Peppino D'Agostino, a virtuosic guitarist, who will perform live music from their collaborative work in which they create compositions designed to support nervous system regulation and emotional well-being. Participants will leave with practical insights and simple music-based tools to support resilience, connection, and well-being in everyday life.

Register

Caregiver Connect Support Group

A support group for UC Berkeley and LBL employees concerned about or caring for an adult.  

Whether you are caring for or concerned about an aging parent or a loved one with a chronic illness or disability, these sessions offer an opportunity to obtain information and coping strategies, as well as connect with other caregivers on campus.

 Every 1st Tuesday & 3rd Friday of the Month | 11 am - Noon via Zoom        

Email kpatchell@berkeley.edu for Zoom link and bCal Scheduling Notifications.

These small group meetings are facilitated by Elder Care Counselor Natasha Boissier, LCSW. 

Be Well at Work Events

Be Well at Work offers a variety of workshops throughout the semester. Topics presented focus on stress management and regenerative activities such as yoga, cooking, and dancing. Learn more about our current offerings