Let’s be frank: although most caregivers will say that it’s a “blessing” or an “honor” to care for a loved one with dementia, the truth is that it’s a tough, stressful and difficult situation. Sure, it can be a very rewarding experience, and can provide many meaningful memories and experiences for both the caregiver and the patient, but the truth of the matter is that many caregivers experience exhaustion, burnout and a variety of other challenges.
“It can be very isolating caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or another form of memory loss,” says Jennifer Trout, Executive Director of Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham. “Many caregivers have not been professionally trained and have to deal with a variety of emotional, physical and mental issues. That’s why it’s so important to make sure caregivers are taking care of themselves, as well as their loved ones.”
If you or someone you love is a caregiver for someone with dementia, one of the simplest and easiest ways to help navigate the difficulties is by joining a caregiver support group. When caregivers care for themselves, they’re not only getting the support they need in order to be a happier and healthier person – they’re also gaining the strength they need to be a better caregiver for their loved ones.
“Caregiving is a tough job,” says Trout. “It’s also a very lonely job, because the only people who can really understand it are others who’ve gone through the same thing. By finding a caregiver support group, you’re giving yourself permission to ask advice, work through the emotions you’re experiencing and having your feelings validated by others who understand. It can be very freeing and relieving to just be with others who won’t judge you.”
Here are five of the biggest benefits that a caregiver support group can provide:
1. It allows you to share your experiences.
Whether you call it venting, asking for advice or just sharing your own personal story, being able to discuss your experiences – the good, the bad and the ugly – with a group of non-judgemental peers can relieve stress and provide much-needed advice and support. Even if you’re not asking for caregiving tips or specific advice, simply being able to share your stories can improve your quality of life. It can allow caregivers to feel less isolated, receive compassion and understanding from other individuals who are in the same position and allow you to gain control over your life once again.
2. It improves your coping skills.
Talking to others who’ve been through what you’re going through can net you some valuable coping skills. For example, if you’re caregiving for a loved one in the early stages of dementia, it can be helpful talking to a caregiver who has already gone through those stages to get their take on caring techniques, available resources and a 20/20 hindsight to the situation. It could give you a better understanding of what’s going on, and perhaps allow you to explore treatment options you hadn’t thought about.
3. It helps reduce stress.
Caregiver stress is a real concern and, if left untreated, can lead to burnout, health complications and a variety of other physical, mental and emotional issues. That’s why it’s important to feel supported by others and have shoulders to lean on – having a support group allows you to gain self-care tips and be kind to yourself. Being stressed doesn’t help anyone, especially you!
4. It can help you improve your caregiving skills.
Most people caring for individuals with dementia aren’t skilled caregivers, and are probably going through this experience for the very first time. By talking to and learning from others who have been in the same position, you can discover new techniques and approaches to becoming a better caregiver. This allows you to provide even better care to your loved one, as well as find ways to deal with your emotional, physical and mental health.
5. It lets you know you’re not alone.
This is a difficult time for you, your senior loved one and everyone else affected by the situation. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and alone, but a support group can help you get through the loneliness and provide you the self-confidence and assurance you need to help you be the very best caregiver possible. The group will also encourage you to take care of yourself – a real need that is easy to ignore if you’re going at this by yourself. A group can also help you navigate feelings of guilt, anger and any other emotions you might be experiencing. Finally, you’ll be able to make new friends who have common interests and backgrounds, which will help you throughout your loved one’s memory loss journey and beyond.
How To Find a Dementia Caregiver Support Group In Your Area
- Check with local hospitals, community centers and senior living communities to see what types of groups are available.
- Look for support groups focused on specific conditions or diseases. The Internet is a great research tool and can allow you to search based on your specific needs and pain points.
- Connect with your city’s Area Agency on Aging and ask them what support groups may be available.
While caregiving can be a difficult struggle, you should never have to feel hopeless or alone. Instead of trying to go at it alone, a caregiver support group can provide you with the emotional and mental support you need in order to make your life a little easier. You may even find yourself laughing, having fun and forming friendships that will last a lifetime.
If you would like more information about caregiving support and dementia care information, contact us at 781.749.7114.
Exceptional Care. Fulfilling Lifestyle.
Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham provides assisted living and memory care that is comfortable, positive, safe and engaging. Exclusively dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia or memory impairment, we’ve created a wellness-focused lifestyle that promotes dignity and individual preferences. Our memory care professionals receive specialized and ongoing training designed to help residents maximize their independence in a secure, calm environment – making a truly positive impact on the lives of our residents each and every day.
Dedicated Memory Care
No matter what level of care or service is needed, residents and families can rest assured that our programs address the various stages of memory decline, allowing residents the opportunity to age in place.
Personalized Services
At Bridges® by EPOCH at Hingham, our services are designed to recognize and adapt to the unique challenges and individuality of each resident, while ensuring comfort and safety. We believe in a full-service approach to care and provide a high level of personalized attention, no matter what stage of memory loss a resident may be experiencing.