Caregiver support groups provide opportunities to talk with other individuals in similar situations. Most groups are facilitated by a professional who is trained to help caregivers share emotions, exchange advice and information on problems or challenges they are facing in their situations.

Some caregiver support groups are specific to conditions such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's, or spouses caring for spouses, while other caregiver support groups are more general and geared toward individuals caring for an older adult or other family member. In addition to the more traditional support groups that meet locally, there are a growing number of online support groups. Online support groups can be accessed whenever you need them--24 hours a day--7 days a week and can be of great benefit for caregivers who are unable to attend a local group. 

Support groups often help you realize you are not alone – there are many people in similar caregiving situations, facing similar challenges. One of the benefits of attending a support group is the opportunity to find and talk with other people who have struggled with the same problems as you and have found answers that have worked for them. As a caregiver, you may begin to rely more on your informal networks and peer groups for support than health care professionals.

Support groups can be found through a number of sources: