An online caregiver support group can help adult children and family members find ways to manage the challenges they face.
Being a caregiver for a senior loved one can be a rewarding experience. Whether it is helping a grandparent get back on their feet after a serious illness or caring for an aging parent whose health is declining, caregiving creates a sense of purpose. Knowing you are making a difference in the life of someone you love is gratifying, but with it also comes natural challenges.
Over the long term, caregiving can become physically and emotionally exhausting. As the demands of the role increase, it’s common for a caregiver to feel fatigued, overwhelmed, and isolated from their old life. The emotional side of watching a loved one’s health deteriorate is also difficult.
Because the demands of caring for a family member are so unique, caregivers may feel alone in their struggles. While friends may empathize, they don’t always understand the challenges. According to the Family Caregiver Alliance, between 40 and 70 percent of family caregivers find themselves battling depression caused by their caregiving situation.
One way to manage the rollercoaster of emotions and challenges that come with caregiving is by connecting with peers. Joining a caregiver support group allows you to do just that.
The Role of Caregiver Support Groups
Support groups give caregivers a judgement-free place to discuss their fears and frustrations, as well as seek advice from those who may have found a solution to a particular caregiver challenge. Some people might want a group that meets in person at a local church or assisted living care community. Other caregivers may feel more comfortable with the anonymity of an online support group.
The 24/7 accessibility of online support groups makes it easier for busy caregivers to participate. Caregivers can post questions or challenges in chat forums or on message boards any time of day or night.
How to Connect with an Online Caregiver Support Group
If you’d like to connect with an online caregiver support group, here are a few to explore:
- AlzConnected: This popular support forum is hosted by the Alzheimer’s Association. It gives dementia caregivers access to a wide variety of resources, in addition to message boards and chat rooms. This resource offers support to both adults with dementia and to family members who are caring for them.
- Family Caregiver Alliance: A comprehensive caregiver resource site, Family Caregiver Alliance also hosts unmoderated support groups for caregivers. Explore the options and find one with members who share issues and concerns similar to yours.
- CareGiving.com: Another site to investigate and connect with fellow caregivers is CareGiving.com. Their resources and forums cover a variety of topics ranging from where to buy adult briefs at the best price to how to know when it’s time for a move to a senior living community.
Each of these resources can help you find a peer group where you can share the highs and lows of caring for a loved one.
Tour Legacy Senior Living and Meet Our Caregivers
At Legacy Senior Living communities, you will find some of the most experienced, compassionate caregivers in the industry. We invite you to visit and learn more about our process for screening and training caregivers. Call (423) 478-8071 to set up a time!