As a Geriatric Care Manager, I am constantly impressed with the many things family caregivers do to help themselves help someone else. One thing that really tops the list in terms of bang for your buck in my opinion is attending a support group. Please keep reading!
Support groups are usually free and family caregivers who attend them seem to “hear” things differently. What is it that keeps some people away from support groups? I think some level of fear or misunderstanding and just plain being too tired to do one more thing.
Fear of what? Fear of being judged, fear of being bored, fear of being subject to lots of crying and wondering how does sharing with others help me?
These groups are the foxholes of caregiving. You will find camaraderie, someone with knowledge you may not have, someone who understands what you are going through in a common situation in time. In addition, you will hear first hand information regarding resources – who, where and why they might be helpful. This comes from other people who are also on the front lines of the struggle. In addition to receiving a huge amount of help you will also feel empathy and heartfelt sympathy for what you and the person you are caring for are going through. Interestingly, this often happens with a minimal amount of cathartic tears, although tissue boxes are kept at the ready!
If you decide to stick your toe in this pool, commit to giving yourself three meetings before deciding if its for you or not. As in most relationships in life, it can take time to meld into a comfort zone with others. If you continue to try, you will feel informed, lighter and just a bit more energetic.
One final thought – there are very specialized support groups. Some are disease specific such as ALS, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease for example. Others are more encompassing – caring for a spouse or an aging parent. To find out more about groups in your area, feel free to call our office at (866) 760-1808 or check the resource chapter of our website. Local hospitals and the Alzheimer’s Association are also good resources.
firstSTREET says
November 17, 2010 at 3:38 pmExcellent advice to seek out resources and support groups. Caregivers often experience negative consequences of their stressful responsibilities, and such support services can help in a great. Thanks for sharing your insights!
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firstSTREET says
November 17, 2010 at 3:38 pmExcellent advice to seek out resources and support groups. Caregivers often experience negative consequences of their stressful responsibilities, and such support services can help in a great. Thanks for sharing your insights!
Become a Facebook fan for discounts on Baby Boomer products and more