Being a volunteer Bingo caller was Stefanie’s unofficial start of her career working with older adults. The knowledge that a simple smile, touch, or a look in someone’s eyes, could make all the difference in someone’s day made a significant impact in her life. Fast forward many years, Stefanie now has over 20 years of diverse non-profit experiences working in the elder & end-of-life field. “To meet individuals/families where they are in their life transitions,” Stefanie founded Be Present Care, which guides and supports caregiving and end-of-life conversations, plans and programs.
Core services:
- Advance Care Planning Consultation & Workshops
- Caregiving Coaching and Geriatric Care Management
- End-Of-Life Doula Services & Coordination
- Program Development and Facilitation
Stefanie’s previous roles as Compassion & Choices Medical Outreach Manager, a part of the CA End of Life Option Act (Medical Aid in Dying) campaign team and Program and Outreach Director for Leeza’s Care Connection, a family caregiver resource support center for families dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, has shaped her passion and focus on advocating, empowering and facilitating advance care plans. Through her outreach and collaborations, Stefanie addresses fears and acknowledges opportunities for conversation that embraces quality of life and death..
She is excited to be a C-TAC member as it is a terrific resource and hub for everything advance care planning and more. From the focus on policy to best practices to access, she is interested in ensuring person-centered care is a priority. Currently as a solo and “non-clinical” practitioner, she has also joined CTAC to see and advocate for opportunities in/or outside healthcare systems to assist in navigating the care gaps when it comes to advance care/eol conversations and documentation. As an end-of-life doula her focus is on the emotional, spiritual, practical, yet profound work that happens during life’s transition.
She really appreciates the C-TAC movement to represent different voices, perspectives, healthcare systems and corporate culture presented and wants to continue to conduct conversations and access.
In addition, to Be Present Cares services, she also hosts monthly Death over Drafts Happy Hour (at various Los Angeles breweries and on Zoom) that is featured on Let’s Reimagine, services at LA Unit Chair of Aging Life Care Association® and Co-facilitator of Death & Dying Collective Los Angeles,
She welcomes the opportunity to connect with fellow C-TAC members. If you would like to set up a discovery call–she would love to hear from you.
For more information contact Stefanie Elkins, MA, MM, Eldercare Manager & End-of-Life Doula at selkins@bepresentcare.com
