Caregiving for a loved one with dementia is a demanding job. It can also be a very lonely and isolating one. Many family caregivers feel as if “no one understands what they’re going through.” They may be hesitant to voice their concerns and frustrations for fear of being judged. All of these reasons (and more) are why family caregivers should consider joining a dementia support group.
“It’s important for everyone to have an outlet where they can relax, share their feelings without being judged and experience a sense of belonging,” says Chrissy Ross, Executive Director of Bridges® by EPOCH at Mashpee. “Caregiver support groups help caregivers de-stress, find their balance and take care of their emotional and mental health, too.”
- It’s a source of support and social interaction.
It can be hard for family caregivers to get out of the house and interact with others in a meaningful way. In-person support groups are a great excuse to spend time outside of caring for your loved one. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet others who are experiencing the same things you are – and who also are yearning for support and social interaction. Not only can you make deep friendships, but you can also gain information about Alzheimer’s care and other topics related to neuromedical conditions.
- You’ll get great advice.
Support groups often have a wide range of individuals in different situations. More than likely, you’ll meet others who are in the same stage of caregiving as you, those who are just beginning their journey and those who have been caregiving for quite some time. This is a great opportunity for you to get first-hand accounts, tips and tricks from those who are in the know. You can also ask questions – like “what are other names for Alzheimer’s?” – without feeling silly.
- You’ll feel validated and heard.
When you feel like you’re alone, the world can be a dark and scary place. So there is quite a sense of relief when you discover that, in fact, other people are having the exact same experiences as you are. So, whether it’s grouching about the difficulty of performing the activities of daily living (ADLs) as your loved one’s abilities deteriorate or asking how to manage this, that or the other thing, you can know you’re heard – and that everyone is there to help support you.
- Your health will improve.
When we’re stressed, our bodies release cortisol, which puts us in a “fight or flight” mentality. When we’re stressed too long, it results in real, physical health issues like weight fluctuation, a lowered immune system, sleeping issues and mental health issues like depression. All this can eventually lead to burnout if left unchecked. Obviously, caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease is very stressful – but having a support group can help you vent some of that stress on a regular basis.
- You’ll get the most up-to-date information about dementia.
Support groups are often sponsored by hospitals or have expert lecturers come in from time to time to share their knowledge and any pertinent information. Because you’re in a controlled situation, you have a unique opportunity to ask questions and gain real insight without having to pay for it (or, in the case of a physician, be squished for time before he or she runs off to the next appointment). It’s also a great opportunity to learn about the latest and greatest advances in dementia research and care.
- You’ll make lifelong friends.
Caregiving has many challenges, especially when you’re caring for a loved one with dementia. It’s incredibly difficult to watch someone you love lose their abilities and their memories. During the good times and the bad, your support group will be there to care for you, cheer you on, be a supportive shoulder and help you through it all.
How To Find a Dementia Support Group:
- Talk to professionals at your loved one’s medical center, or visit a local senior center
- Reach out to your local Area Agency on Aging to learn about what’s available near you
- Connect with memory care assisted living communities in your vicinity to see what options are available. Bridges® by EPOCH at Mashpee, for example, holds support groups that are free and open to the public. Family caregivers can gain information and support while their loved one can receive watchful care from the Bridges® team members.
Peace of Mind for Cape Cod Seniors and Their Families
Bridges® by EPOCH at Mashpee provides memory care assisted living that is comfortable, positive, safe and engaging. Exclusively dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, our community creates a wellness-focused lifestyle that promotes dignity, respects individual preferences and makes a positive impact on the lives of our residents every day.
Dedicated Memory Care
Bridges® by EPOCH at Mashpee offers compassionate dementia care and unique programs that are tailored to meet the physical, cognitive and emotional needs of each resident – throughout every stage of disease progression. Residents can age in place comfortably and with dignity while families gain peace of mind.
Supportive, Engaging Services
At Bridges® by EPOCH at Mashpee, we offer a program of care and services that celebrates life and supports individual strengths. Our compassionate and engaging approach adapts to the unique challenges and individuality of each resident. Our memory care professionals receive specialized and ongoing training designed to help residents maximize their independence in a secure, calm environment.
Bridges® by EPOCH is New England’s largest stand-alone memory care assisted living provider.
Contact us today to learn more.