What have you been reading, watching, or listening to this month that struck a chord or helped you start a conversation about what matters? Below is a snapshot of things that resonated with us. Add to this list by sharing in the comments section below!
When a Friend Becomes a Caregiver
As demographic shifts reshape who provides care as people age, family support is becoming less certain for many older adults. This article explores the increasingly growing role of friends and neighbors in providing meaningful caregiver assistance, fostering human connection, and helping older adults age safely and as independently as possible.
The Guardian article shares lessons from palliative care professionals and end-of-life doulas who have witnessed what matters most to people near the end of life. Their message is simple: prioritize relationships, meaningful experiences, and what brings purpose and joy, rather than status, possessions, or work, and use the reality of mortality as a reminder to live more intentionally today.
NAC and AARP Report: Caught in the Middle – The Crucial Role of Sandwich Generation Caregivers
A new report from the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) and AARP highlights the challenges faced by “sandwich generation” caregivers, who simultaneously support older adults and younger family members. For a concise overview, The John A. Hartford Foundation provides a helpful summary and links to the full report, making it an easy resource for anyone looking to better understand the needs of family caregivers balancing multiple caregiving roles.
Turn on the Lights Podcast: Ageism, Dignity, and What Matters Most
In this episode, Alice Bonner explores how age-friendly, person-centered care can better support older adults and those important to them, and why addressing ageism is essential to health equity. In the IHI Spotlight, Kate DeBartolo highlights The Conversation Project and My Health Checklist, a practical tool that helps older adults identify what matters most and prepare for healthcare conversations.
Events Worth Checking Out
The Chaplain & the Doctor: Movie Screening and Q&A (Oct 12 – Dec 1st)
Filled with warmth and humor, The Chaplain & The Doctor film follows two unlikely allies working to bring curiosity, connection, and compassion to a broken healthcare system – one patient at a time. Screenings will take place in Atlanta, GA, Denver, CO, San Francisco, CA, and Seattle, WA. To honor Spiritual Care Week, they’re hosting three virtual screenings from October 20 to 22, each followed by a live Q&A with Dr. Jessica Zitter and Chaplain Betty Clark.
Reimagine Virtual Summit 2026: Grief in Our Time (Oct 15th)
A free online gathering featuring dozens of speakers and sessions exploring grief, healing, creativity, mindfulness, and community.
Shomer Collective Convening (Oct 21st )
This annual Convening is a space for people who understand that Jewish communities need better ways to talk about death and are ready to make a difference. They also host a quarterly program: What Matters – Caring Conversations about End of Life open to the general public and a train-the trainer program to bring this to your community.
End Well 2026 When does now begin? (Nov 12th)
A one-day hybrid conference bringing together innovators, caregivers, and advocates to explore caregiving, grief, and end-of-life experiences.
Casual community gatherings across the country this September that invite people to connect through conversations about death, grief, caregiving, and planning ahead.
Free virtual programs on end-of-life planning, grief, and caregiving to help people prepare, learn, and connect.
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