Caregiver Bronx NY
Support groups are a fantastic means of gaining information and emotional support if you're a family caregiver. Finding the right one for you can be a little more challenging than you might think at first, however. With some perseverance, you can find just the right group.
Talk to Your Loved One's Doctor
Your elderly loved one's doctor is an excellent first choice when you're looking for information about support groups. It's very likely that he already has a handout prepared that he has available whenever a family caregiver is looking for information about local support groups. From there, you can widen your search.
Inquire at the Hospital
Many support groups actually meet at your local hospital. It's a good environment and usually quite convenient. Try contacting the local hospitals in your area and ask what information they have about support groups. If you're having a hard time locating a person rather than an automated menu, try the hospital's website.
Ask at Senior Centers
Senior centers are another excellent source of information about support groups. They can help you find groups for you or for your elderly loved one. Some of those meetings may even happen at the senior centers, which can help you and your elderly loved one make more community connections.
Talk to Senior Agencies
Senior agencies in your area can also help. If you're having a difficult time finding agencies devoted to helping seniors in your area, try contacting the county health department in your area to get pointed in the right direction. Even if these agencies don't have support groups or information about groups, they may have other resources that can help you and your loved one.
Do an Internet Search
Although many people might head to the Internet first, it's a good last step instead. This is especially true if you're looking primarily for online support groups. Not all local in-person support groups list their meetings online, so you might not find much online about groups in your area. If you can't attend meetings in person, however, online groups are a wonderful backup choice.
Once you start finding support groups, try attending a meeting to find out if it's the right fit for you.