Caregiving can feel isolating, but you’re not alone

Caregiving can be an isolating experience, but you’re not alone in this challenge.

There are over 34 million Americans providing unpaid care to an adult age 50 or older. And nearly 16 million are caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.

But when you’re overwhelmed and exhausted by caregiving responsibilities, it can feel like you’re the only person dealing with so much.

That’s why caregiver support groups are so helpful. They’re filled with people who are in similar situations.

Being able to talk with others who truly understand what you’re going through reduces stress, validates your experience, and gives connection and support.

We explain how participating in support groups can help and share 8 benefits of caregiver support groups.

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How caregiver support groups can help

One of the main benefits of caregiver support groups is that they provide much-needed social support.

This is especially important when family and friends aren’t supportive.

Support group members also validate each other’s experiences. It’s a relief to know that what you’re going through is normal and that you’re not the only one with these feelings – negative or positive.

Support groups are also a great place to ask for advice, find out about useful resources, or vent frustrations.

You won’t have to worry about judgement or confusion from non-caregivers since everyone is going through similar struggles.

8 benefits of caregiver support groups

Decades of research and anecdotal evidence show that there are clear benefits to participating in caregiver support groups.

Here are 8 top benefits:

1. Feeling less lonely, isolated or judged

2. Reducing depression, anxiety, or distress

3. Gaining a sense of empowerment and control

4. Getting advice or information about practical solutions or treatment options

5. Improving or learning healthy coping skills

6. Getting a better understanding of what to expect in the future

7. Improving caregiving skills and giving better quality of life to your older adult

8. Learning about ways to keep your older adult at home longer

Find a caregiver support group in your area

1. Local hospitals or community centers almost always have handouts with lists of local support groups

2. Enter your zip code in the Eldercare Locator to find the Area Agency on Aging for your area. Call and ask about support groups offered by local organizations.

3. For support groups focused on specific health conditions, check websites for information about local meetings. Popular sites include:

4. Alzheimer’s Association

5. National Stroke Association

6. Parkinson’s Foundation

7. American Cancer Society – we suggest using “support group” for the keyword

Recommended for you:

1. 14 Caregiver Support Groups on Facebook

2. 4 Ways to Reduce Stress from Caregiver Emotions

3. 4 Ways to Overcome Caregiver Loneliness in Dementia Care

By DailyCaring Editorial Team Image: Albemarle Commission

This article wasn’t sponsored and doesn’t contain affiliate links. For more information, see How We Make Money.

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