The best caregiver support is from people whoĀ truly understand
Caregiving can be an isolating experience ā especially if friends or non-caregiving family members donāt understand what youāre going through.
When caregiving makes you feel overwhelmed and lonely, try a caregiver support group.
Caregiver support groups reduce stress because you get a chance to talk with people who really understand, vent frustrations, get useful advice, and find out about local resources.
And youāll know that youāre not alone in the struggle.
But what if you attend a support group meeting and find that you donāt really like the group or didnāt feel a connection?
First, and most important, donāt give up on support groups.
Every support group has its own personality, so the first one you try might not be a match for you. There are many options out there and itās worth the effort to find a group that suits you.
We share 4 tips to help you find a wonderful caregiver support group that feels just right.
1. Give the group another chance
Consider going back to that group one or two more times.
Maybe that specific combination of attendees didnāt work for you, but people come and go so the next meeting could feel completely different.
2. Try a different support group
Trying different groups increases the chance that youāll find one that’s a good fit.
Find out about caregiver support groups in your area by asking local senior care communities, senior centers, and hospitals or through the Eldercare Locator.
If your older adult has a specific health condition, many major non-profit organizations offer local support groups, including:
- Alzheimerās Association
- American Stroke Association
- Parkinsonās Foundation
- American Lung Association
3. Find a trusted confidante
Instead of attending a support group, you might prefer speaking with someone one-on-one.Ā
Itās important that the person you choose is able to focus on listening and providing the type of support you need ā and wonāt judge or criticize your actions.
Suggested sources of support:
- A leader or counselor from your church, temple, or place of worship
- A therapist, social worker, or similar type of trained counselor
- A trusted friend or close family member whoās known for their empathy and ability to listen
4. Try an online caregiver support group
There are many excellent sources of support available online. Even if you arenāt seeing people face-to-face, many caregivers say that group members start feeling like family.
We recommend many wonderful private groups on Facebook. Theyāre all free ā just request to join.
These are all great groups, but as with everything online, take the usual precautions when communicating with people you don’t know.Ā
Stay safe by not sharing any personal information, especially your address, social security number, or financial information.
Recommended for you:
- 8 Benefits of Caregiver Support Groups
- 14 Caregiver Support Groups on Facebook
- Caregiver Emotions: 2 Tips for Managing Tough Feelings
By DailyCaring EditorialĀ Team
This article wasnāt sponsored and doesnāt contain affiliate links. For more information, see How We Make Money.
Frances Carollo
I live in Gloucester, Ma. I’ve been a 24/7 caregiver for my husband, 79 yrs. old. he is at the end stage of COPD. In and out of the hospital, need oxygen all the time. does inhalers, nebulizers, concentrators non-stop. I’ve developed high blood pressure because of the stress. He is presently in a nursing home, he won’t except the reason why he is there. It’s always someone else’s fault. He has a way of making me feel guilty. I’m looking for a place nearby where I can go and listen maybe talk about what I’ve been dealing with for so long. I feel that I’ve lost myself.
DailyCaring
I’m so sorry that you’re going through this. You’re doing everything you can for your husband and have the right to take care of your own health and well-being as well.
He’s in a place where he’s getting the care he needs. Unfortunately, he’s not able to be appreciative and understanding of this decision. Try to remind yourself that you’re doing the right thing. But of course, it’s hard to hear his complaints.
It’s great that you’re seeking support — that’s an excellent way to cope with a difficult caregiving situation like this. Here are a couple of articles that can help you find in-person and online support groups:
— 8 Benefits of Caregiver Support Groups https://dailycaring.com/8-benefits-of-caregiver-support-groups/
— 11 Caregiver Support Groups on Facebook Youāll Want to Join https://dailycaring.com/11-caregiver-support-groups-on-facebook-youll-want-to-join/
Rita DeLongchamp-Osborne
I started with Memory People which was a great beginning. As I learned more I joined other groups Alzheimer’s, Dementia and Caregiving. I am in contact with the nearest Alzheimer’s society and often check their calendar. Needs change. I found an online cafĆ© for a while. I also found free courses in video on topics such as Alzheimer’s, Caregiving, Self-care, Depression. There are even 24 hour groups on line.
I also started connecting casually with individuals and couples through regular activities – dances, art, fitness facility, aquatics classes. I am discovering a whole world of people who understand more about dementia because someone in their family has it.
I am sure you will find the two or three people you who will be there when you need them.
DailyCaring
I’m so glad to hear that you found so many great sources of support! It’s great that you branched out to so many different areas and found people who are supportive.