EP30 - Changing the Way We See Caregivers — with Nikki Lopez of Caregiver OneCall

Welcome to another episode of the Simplify Senior Transitions Podcast — the show for adult children of aging parents, seniors themselves, and the professionals who support them. I’m Dale Corpus, a Senior Transition Specialist and real estate expert based in the San Francisco Bay Area — and part of the Sandwich Generation, just like many of you listening. I created this podcast to make senior care more human, more accessible, and a little less overwhelming.In today’s episode, I’m joined by Nikki Lopez, MBA, CDP, the nonprofit founder, senior care advocate, and voice behind Caregiver OneCall — a 24/7 emotional support line for family caregivers. Nikki shares how her personal caregiving story inspired her to build systems of support for people who are often exhausted, overlooked, and silently suffering.We dive into:The emotional toll of caregiving no one talks aboutSuicide ideation in caregivers and the mental health crisis behind closed doorsWhy so many caregivers carry resentment, guilt, and grief at the same timeHow Caregiver OneCall is filling the emotional support gapHer transition from corporate life to full-time advocate and entrepreneurNikki is also the CEO of Caring Haven, an award-winning senior care agency in the Bay Area, and author of When the Strong Get Tired: Real Caregiving Stories. Real Support. This conversation is raw, validating, and full of heart.Whether you’re a caregiver yourself, a senior care professional, or part of the Sandwich Generation—this one’s for you.👤 Guest Bio:Nicola "Nikki" Lopez, MBA, Certified Dementia PractitionerNikki Lopez is the founder of Caregiver OneCall, a 24/7 emotional support hotline for family caregivers. She’s also the CEO of Caring Haven, an award-winning senior care agency based in the Bay Area. A former DEI program manager and corporate leader, Nikki blends strategy and compassion in everything she builds.She is the author of When The Strong Get Tired: Real Caregiving Stories. Real Support. Through her work, Nikki is transforming the way we see caregivers—from invisible and overwhelmed to empowered and supported.📞 Caregiver OneCall 24/7 Hotline: 833.927.6599📍 Office: 925.331.8387📧 Email: [email protected]🌐 Website: www.caregiveronecall.org🔗  Contact & Show Resources:If you’re navigating a senior transition right now and trying to figure out the next step for a parent, here are some resources designed to help.⸻Resources for FamiliesIf you’re navigating senior living decisions, downsizing, or trying to determine the next step for an aging parent, visit:→ www.simplifyseniortransitions.com/familiesThis page provides guidance and resources specifically designed for families navigating senior transitions.⸻Resources for Senior Care ProfessionalsAnd if you’re a senior care professional who wants stronger positioning, clearer referral ecosystems, and more scalable systems for serving families in today’s evolving senior care landscape, visit:→ www.simplifyseniortransitions.com/professionals🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE & SHARE this episode with someone who needs it!Support the show