Support Groups and Family Caregiving
Home Care in Reston VA
This can be a time of tremendous change for both you and your aging parent. Whether you are new to the role of family caregiver, or have been caring for your parent for some time, support 
groups can provide help and wisdom for both of you. While many think of turning to support groups for emotional reasons, they are also informative. People come together, from a shared trauma, event or life happening, to share their experiences—what has worked or has not worked for them in specific situations. No need to reinvent the wheel. Let others who have gone before you help light the path and clear the obstacles.
Support Groups for Aging Parents
If your loved one is suffering from a chronic disease, support groups for specific diseases can offer emotional support as well as experience-based information. Many diseases are progressive. This group can help your parent understand what may lie ahead and what outcomes to expect from the various scenarios. Support groups offer a variety of formats including online, telephone and in-person. In-person offers your parent a chance to engage with others and even meet a few new friends. If they have never been a joiner and are uncomfortable with the process, consider the services of an in-home care provider who can drive them to the meeting as well as accompany them the first few times. A few of the support groups for chronic illnesses include chronic pain, diabetes, stroke, heart patients, arthritis, asthma and COPD.
To find one in your area, check with your parent’s health care provider. Your local library and other facilities such as the senior community center are great resources. Searching online will bring up multiple choices. Contact the national organization devoted to the specific illness such as the American Diabetes Association or American Heart Association and they will steer you in the right direction.
Support Groups for Family Caregivers
If you have ever been in need of an extended circle of support, now is the time. These support groups can also revolve around a specific illness such as caregiving for those with dementia or Alzheimer’s groups. They can also be all-inclusive, relating more to you as a caregiver than to a specific disorder. Some communities offer “burnout” support groups. These groups offer hope, practical information, and camaraderie, and remind you that you are not alone.
To find one in your area consider checking with AARP, a local in-home care service provider, or an online search.
Home Care Provider
In home care providers can offer support in a multitude of ways. They support your loved one by assisting with daily activities, providing transportation and companionship. They support you by giving you the time you need to refresh and reenergize so you can lead a balanced and happy life while, at the same time, committing to caring for your loved one.
If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Reston, VA, call the caring staff at Medical Professionals On Call today. 703-273-8818
Medical Professionals On Call has such a caring, professional staff who are available to step in with whatever level of care necessary for loved ones and to relieve you of that stress.
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