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Hi! I'm Shannon Shea and this is my story.
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I didn't grow up wanting to be a social worker or help older adults.
In 1996, I received my AA degree from Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, CA with a focus on Psychology.
I then went on to work in outside sales for the next 20 years.
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A Midlife Shift...
It wasn't until my mid-40's when I decided to make a major shift in career paths.
I received my bachelor's degree from Brandman University in Irvine in social work with a focus on gerontology.
I then received my master's degree from Louisiana State University, also in gerontological social work.
I am currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Gerontology from Concordia University Chicago. I expect to graduate with my cohort in 2023.
I Discovered The Issues Older Adults Faced
While doing my internship for my BSW at the Huntington Beach Senior Center, I was tasked with going into people's homes to find out which resources and services I could connect them to.
I was able to see firsthand how many older adults needed a little extra help around the house with things such as shopping, cooking, cleaning, laundry, and pet care, but they could not afford to pay a traditional in-home caregiving company.
I Then Founded Elder Love USA
I knew there had to be a better way, but when I could not find it, I founded Elder Love USA, Inc. - a nonprofit in-home caregiving company. We provide care at a reduced rate with low minimum hourly requirements.
Now, I'm on a mission to help caregivers feel seen, supported, and understood.
Like you, I’ve been a caregiver for my aging parents.
My dad passed away in July 2021 after living with Parkinson’s Disease for nearly 20 years. As his physical challenges increased, so did our bond—and the demands of caregiving.
Now, it’s just me and my mom (aka my difficult parent).
Caregiving is beautiful, complicated, and—let’s be honest—not always easy. There are emotions to manage, endless responsibilities to juggle, and somehow, you’re expected to keep up with your own life too.
That experience inspired me to create something I wish I had: a course for adults caring for aging parents, especially those who aren't always the easiest to help.
My goal is to help you better understand what’s happening to your parent’s mind and body—and to support you in caring for them without losing yourself in the process.
Learn more about the course and/or take the “Is My Parent Difficult?” test to see where you stand and how I can help.