Social Worker Spotlight: Meet Brooke

By Kara Jacobsen

Working at Alzheimer’s San Diego is a natural fit for Brooke Silveria – she’s always been passionate about stigma reduction for those with cognitive differences and/or mental disabilities. After all, Brooke’s grandad had Alzheimer’s, and she’s found there’s not only a stigma surrounding people with dementia but also those who take care of them.

“We all have our own inner worlds that influence how we interact with the outer world,” including people living with dementia, she explains. “Just because some have a different way of thinking, interacting, and existing doesn’t mean they should be treated as less than…they still deserve respect.”

Brooke’s undergraduate education focused on topics of social justice. She received her Bachelor’s of Arts in Women Studies and Latin American Studies from California State University, Chico. As a student there, she connected with a mentor who had a Master’s in Social Work degree. She followed in their footsteps and graduated from San Diego State University with her Master’s in Social Work.

As she interacts daily with the families at Alzheimer’s San Diego, Brooke has been able to make a tangible impact. Her favorite part of her job is being able to witness her clients’ resilience.

“It’s hard to hear them struggling. But the fact that they push through and are able to provide care, seeing as though it’s one of the hardest jobs, is just a testament to their strength,” she shares.

Brooke knows this journey comes with many obstacles, so her most important piece of advice for care partners is: “Lean on your support system and us (the Family Services team at Alzheimer’s San Diego) as much as possible. People might feel hesitant to reach out because they don’t want to burden people, but it’s our job to be a support system. Utilize us even if you just are calling for one question because over time those little things can really add up.”

Brooke says she learns something new every time she works with someone impacted by dementia.

“A big part of being a care partner is just adjusting how you interact with someone. Alzheimer’s and dementia can bring emotions to the forefront. You have to pay attention to what you say and how it makes people feel. It makes me wonder that if we did that everyone, just how much more compassionate and empathetic the world might be.”

You’re not on this journey alone — talk with one of our Dementia Experts by calling 858.492.4400, or schedule a Zoom appointment to connect with a friendly face.