How to Find Support Groups for Caregivers

Being a caregiver is a tough job- and who takes care of the caregivers? Few understand the plight of a caregiver like other caregivers. Support groups can be of great help.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Contact information for loved one's health care facility
• Internet access

1. Your loved one's health care facility will be one of your best resources. The medical assistant may know of support groups, or notices of them may be posted around the office. Feel free to ask the health care professional if those avenues fail.

2. Publications or notices related to the condition, or caregivers, are another good source of information. At times, you may find these notices in pharmacies or even grocery stores.

3. If these resources don't turn up a group near you, try the Internet. Not only can you find groups to meet with in person, you can also find support via message boards, chat rooms, and emailing lists. I'll provide a few links to get you started.

Tips & Warnings

• If you can't find a group near you, that may indicate the need to start one, if your schedule permits. Your inquires may turn up people who are also interested in starting a support group.
• Like support groups, your loved one's health care facility can recommend good publications, as well.
• Be careful about groups or organizations that ask for money. They may be legitimate, with the money covering costs for room rentals, seminars, etc., or it may be a rip-off. Try to find out if you can visit a group before paying.

Resources

• Caregiver Magazine
• National Family Caregivers Association
• Brain Injury Resource Center
• Traumatic Brain Injury Help Desk for Caregivers
• Family Caregiver Alliance Groups