If you are caring for aging parents, you may reach a point where you're fed up and a little burned out.
Caregiving introduces stress in many areas of your life, due to household disruption, financial pressure, and a significant change in the family dynamic.
Perhaps you've tried to reach out to your family and friends, but they don't seem to understand what you're going through.
This is where a support group comes in.
Imagine being able to talk with people who are also caring for aging parents, so they know what it's like.
Better yet, they can share their own experiences with you, and maybe you can gain some new insight.
In a support group, you'll be able to talk about your problems, as well as listen to others' problems.
Not only will you get help from others, but you will be able to give help to others, which is always a great feeling.
The meetings will also provide you a little escape from home, so you don't feel so isolated.
The other benefit of a local group is that the members are from the same area as you, so they might have suggestions for specific local services and resources related to caring for aging parents.
Also, you'll have the opportunity to make some new friends.
If you live in a remote area, or simply cannot find the time or means to get away from home and attend a support group, there is always the Internet.
Online support groups are fairly easy to find, and are specific based on your particular needs, so you can reach out to others who are also caring for aging parents.
Also, you can control when you reach out to the group, so those days where you need help the most, the group will be there.
This way you don't have to wait until the next meeting to air your grievances.
I would recommend trying both types of support groups, online and local, to start.
See what the benefits and drawbacks are of each, and then decide which works better for your needs.
Or, if possible, keep doing both! There is no such thing as too much support.