Caregiver Support
Reducing Guilt, Strengthening Wellbeing, and Finding Support
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease,
dementia, or another chronic condition often
begins with small acts of support — helping with
appointments, offering reminders, or simply being
present. Over time, occasional help can grow into
managing care and daily routines. Many caregivers
step into this role as needs increase.
While caregiving can be deeply meaningful, it
also brings emotional, physical, and practical
demands that are easy to overlook while focusing
on someone else’s needs. Without support, those
responsibilities can quietly build, affecting not only
your loved one, but your own wellbeing.
5 Essential Pillars of Caregiver Support
1. Care for Your Own Health
Caregivers often put their own needs last.
Maintaining regular medical care, prioritizing sleep,
eating well, staying hydrated, and incorporating
light physical activity can help sustain the energy
and resilience caregiving requires.
2. Share the Responsibility
Accepting help can ease the daily load. Delegating
tasks such as errands, meals, transportation, or
supervision can reduce stress and create space to
recharge.
3. Address Emotional Stress
Caregiving can bring emotional fatigue. Counseling,
education programs, and peer support groups offer
practical coping strategies and the reassurance
of connecting with others who understand the
experience.
4. Prioritize Rest and Respite
everyday challenges with greater confidence.
Regular breaks are essential for caregiver wellbeing.
Respite care — whether from family, friends, or
professional services — provides time to rest,
attend appointments, and focus on personal needs.
5. Maintain Connection Beyond the Care Role
Caregiving can gradually take center stage in daily
life. Staying connected to friendships, hobbies, and
meaningful activities helps preserve a sense of
identity and balance.
Available Support
Accessing support early can make a meaningful
difference. The Alzheimer’s Association is here to
help. Their 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900) provides
immediate access to information, crisis assistance,
and emotional support.
We invite you to join Inspirations of Mount
Washington’s free, in-person caregiver support
group at the Mt. Washington Public Library that
offers a safe, confidential space to connect with
others navigating similar experiences. Participants
build peer support, receive education about
dementia, and gain practical strategies to manage
everyday challenges with greater confidence.