The best caregiver support is from people who truly understand
Caregiving can be an isolating experience – especially if friends or non-caregiving family members don’t understand what you’re 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 you’ll know that you’re not alone in the struggle.
But what if you attend a support group meeting and find that you don’t really like the group or didn’t feel a connection?
First, and most important, don’t 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 it’s 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 didn’t 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 you’ll 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:
3. Find a trusted confidante
Instead of attending a support group, you might prefer speaking with someone one-on-one.
It’s important that the person you choose is able to focus on listening and providing the type of support you need – and won’t 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 who’s 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 aren’t seeing people face-to-face, many caregivers say that group members start feeling like family.
We recommend many wonderful private groups on Facebook. They’re all free – 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.
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 Editorial Team
This article wasn’t sponsored and doesn’t contain affiliate links. For more information, see How We Make Money.
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About the Author
Connie Chow
Connie was a hands-on caregiver for her grandmother for 20 years. (Grandma made it to 101 years old!) She knows how challenging, overwhelming, and all-consuming caring for an older adult can be. She also knows how important support is — especially in the form of practical solutions, valuable resources, and self-care tips.
I don’t know how caregivers have time for support groups. My husband has dementia and COPD, he demands almost all of my time.
I must not manage time very well or something.
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.
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 You’ll Want to Join https://dailycaring.com/11-caregiver-support-groups-on-facebook-youll-want-to-join/
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 café 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.
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.