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Taking care of others is often a difficult job, especially if you don’t have support from your friends and family members. Sometimes even the person you take care of doesn’t appreciate your efforts.

You are in a situation where no one understands what you are going through, and it is getting more difficult to cope with it.

There are no better people to understand you than other caregivers. A caregiver support group is a perfect place to let out what is bothering you, resolve all your doubts, and get some new tips.

However, you may not be impressed with the group. Sometimes it is not the thing you were looking for.

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So how do you find a caregiver support group you like? These are some of the options:

  • Try again with the same group
  • Find another group
  • Search for online support groups
  • Find a person you can trust

Try Again with the Same Group

You went there for the first time, and you didn’t like the atmosphere. The people who attended the meeting weren’t as friendly as you were hoping for, and the topic which was covered wasn’t in your interest.

You decided not to go anymore, since it is a waste of time.

This is a possibility. However, don’t give up the first time. Attend meetings several more times, and then see whether this group is right for you or not.

Perhaps more relevant topics will be covered next time, and there will be a different combination of people.

caregiver support group

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Find Another Group

If you still don’t like the group, search for another one.

Ask people who attend the meetings of the group you went to if they know of any others. Make sure to ask about the topics they cover, so you don’t waste even more time.

The Area Agency on Aging is a useful source of information on caregiver support groups. Find a support group in your neighborhood by adding a zip code in the search box.

You can also ask employees in senior facilities if they know any group that fits your needs.

Search for Online Support Groups

It is always better if you can attend meetings in person. However, if you can’t find a group you like, you may turn to online sources.

Social networks have benefits for caregivers as well. There are various caregiver groups on Facebook and other social networks, and they are easy to find.

A group is usually gathered around one topic, so you can find a dementia group, for example. They are not closed, so it is easy to join.

Post a question you want, but check the rules of the group first. Members may even gather from time to time in person, which is a great way to meet other caregivers.

Find a Person You Can Trust

If you are not a person who likes gatherings, find a trustworthy person you can talk to. That can be your friend or a family member. These days, people have a low sense of empathy, so it is quite difficult to find someone who will listen.

Meeting with a social worker or a therapist is also a good idea. They are not only there to listen to you but may come up with advice on how to help you with specific problems.

You don’t need to be in this fight alone. Search for other caregivers and exchange experiences with them. See what their solutions on certain topics were and release the stress you’ve been gathering inside.

For more on caregiver support groups, read here.

 

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