Caregivers Groups can save lives

Support groups allow non-judgmental sharing of challenges and storytelling. Research shows that ‘participation in support groups increases feelings of well-being among caregivers, increases the social supports available and used by caregivers, and improves the relationship between caregiver and care receiver.’ Groups also reduce the isolation by being with other caregivers who ‘get it’. The group combats the failings of family and friends who don’t understand. Groups provide insight into the length of the journey and tips on how to cope. Caregivers often experience stress and poor sleep. 

Groups help us understand why we are challenged and what lies ahead.  Hearing what others say about the future may not register right away because stress but it will come back later to remember what others learned at this stage. That helps caregivers respond to new situations with wisdom others have shared. Groups help caregivers find the resilience necessary to endure. They help reduce the chance of burnout. 

Finding and joining a group is the most important outreach that many caregivers rely on. In-person groups have advantages and so do on-line groups. In person, people can communicate more fully to give and get nonverbal signals and connections. Bonding allows friendships that can be called on outside the group. They provide relief from the challenges at home. On-line groups have benefits as well. They allow caregivers to be handy when loved ones need help, reduce time away caused by travel. Some caregivers have physical limitations that make travel difficult. In small communities there may not be a support group available. We have learned through Covid that on-line groups can really help.  

While the Caregiver Support Foundation, along with others, conduct in person groups in our area the Area Agency on Aging in your area probably has a list of groups. We conduct on-line support groups that you may consider. In addition, if there is no group near you, we will start an on-line group for you if you have two or more other caregiver who want to attend.