<p>You don’t have to live in the same zip code to feel the weight ofcaregiving. Whether you’re across the street or the country, the dementia journey changes you. </p><p>In this episode, we welcome <strong>Francesca B.Falzarano, PhD</strong>, a developmental psychologist and Assistant Professor of Gerontology at USC, whose life and work have been shaped by her caregiving journey. Francesca became a caregiver at just 14 years old, an experience that has fueled her mission to understand better and support those caring for a loved one living with dementia.</p><p>Our conversation explores the unique challenges of caregiving from a distance, the realities of the “sandwich generation,” and how a caregiver’s needs evolve throughout the illness, from the first diagnosis, through progression, and into grief and bereavement. We discuss how technology can be a lifeline, not just for managing care, but for sustaining emotional connection, reducing stress, and building resilience.</p><p>Whether you are a long-distance care partner, part of the sandwich generation, or navigating your own changing caregiving role, this episode offers insight, validation, and practical ideas for finding connection and support- wherever you are in the journey. </p><p><br></p><p>Study Mentioned:</p><p><strong>Living Memory Home-4-Dementia Care Pairs (LMH-4-DCP)</strong></p><p><a href="https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06225986" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06225986</a></p><p><br></p><p>Thank you to our Podcast Sponsors:</p><p>Eli Lilly and Family Caregiver Alliance</p><p>and listeners like you!</p>