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4 Unique (Nonprofit) Family Caregiver Resources You Might Not Know About

Being a family caregiver can be a rewarding but often stressful experience. We talk with family caregivers on a daily basis, so we can assure you that you’re not alone in these feelings!

If you’re not quite ready to bring in help from a professional caregiver, it’s likely you’ve turned to the internet to do research and find support and resources. Most caregiving organizations have websites that can be a wealth of information, and perhaps even forums and online groups where you can ask questions. But a select few of these organizations go the extra mile to connect family caregivers with more personal help and support – and in some very unique ways! 

The following organizations all provide different ways to get educated and get support that’s more catered to your exact situation. 

The Caregiver Space

About the organization

“There are millions of caregivers in the world, so why do we all feel so alone? Let’s change that right now.The Caregiver Space isn’t a front for a pharmaceutical company, a healthcare conglomerate, or the government. We’re a bunch of caregivers from all walks of life, coming together to support each other.

We can be totally honest about our experiences because this is a judgement-free-zone. Our experiences are all different, but we get it. Not everyone has friends who understand or will even listen; that’s why we’re here.

We provide a safe and open space—at no cost—where you can be real about what it’s like to care for someone dealing with a serious disability or illness. No matter what stage you are in your caregiver journey—whether you currently care for someone, are about to, or did it in the past—you’re welcome here.

Our community of caregivers is a place to ask questions, share experiences, get real answers, or just get things off your chest. “

What’s unique

You may have thought writing letters was a lost art, but not for this organization! They will match you up with another caregiver to exchange letters via their pen pal program. Sometimes the personal touch is just what you need. 

This organization also has a wide range of groups/forums you can join, not only narrowed by the condition your loved one is dealing with, but also specific to YOU. If you’re a spouse, a millennial, a daughter or son, there’s a group for you where you can talk with people in the same position you are.

As an extra bonus, The Caregiver Space has a large and active Facebook group that you can join as well. 

Well Spouse

About the organization

“The Well Spouse® Association advocates for and addresses the needs of individuals caring for a chronically ill and/or disabled spouse/partner. We offer peer-to-peer support and educate health care professionals and the general public about the special challenges and unique issues “well” spouses face every day. To achieve this mission the Well Spouse® Association:

  • coordinates a national network of Support Groups
  • facilitates a Mentor program and Round Robin letter writing groups
  • publishes a newsletter (Mainstay) and e-newsletter (Member Minute)
  • hosts a website (www.wellspouse.org) with resources for coping and survival skills, which includes an online chat forum for spousal caregivers
  • organizes regional respite weekends and a national conference for caregivers
  • provides continuing support for members whose spouses have died
  • advocates on behalf of spousal caregivers
  • seeks out new initiatives to help caregiver spouses and their families cope with the emotional and financial stresses associated with chronic illness and/or disability”

What’s unique: 

Well Spouse offers many resources behind information and online communities. The website can help you locate local support groups you can attend, and if there isn’t one in your area, they have resources to help you start one. If in-person support isn’t an option for you, Well Spouse offers phone support. And if you are new to caregiving, they offer peer mentors who can help guide you through the journey. For those who want to connect with others in person on a larger scale, Well Spouse holds a national conference each year. 

Smart Patients (in partnership with Family Caregiver Alliance)

About the organization: 

“Smart Patients is an online community for patients and families affected by a variety of illnesses. Here you can learn at your own level about scientific developments related to your condition, share your questions and concerns with other members, and use what you learn in the context of your own life.

We believe patients are the most underutilized resource in healthcare. We’ve watched patients become experts in their conditions — and we see that their knowledge improves the care they receive. With the right tools, you and other patients can do the same.”

What’s unique

This resource is especially helpful for those who want to be educated on the condition their loved one is suffering from, or who are seeking treatment options. In addition to the communities they host, Smart Patients has options for researching specific conditions and even for finding clinical trials their loved one might be able to participate in. 

AARP – Caregiving portal

About the organization: 

Caring for a family member or close friend is one of the most important—and complicated—roles you’ll play. It can happen suddenly, with an accident or illness, or it may start with driving your loved one to get groceries or going to the doctor. Later, you may find yourself taking more time off from work, preparing meals, or handling their finances.

Whether you’re just beginning to anticipate a need or taking care of a family member full-time, this guide serves as a practical tool to make the process easier for both you and your loved one. It includes advice, resources, and checklists to help you get organized and find support on your caregiving journey. Remember: Just take it one step at a time.”

What’s unique

AARP has a powerful database of information and caregiver stories, but what makes this section of their website unique is the ability to find a wide variety of local services and resources. By entering your zip code, you can find in-home care options (like Sequoia Senior Solutions!), medical services, housing options, and community services like transportation, adult daycare, and legal help – all in your area.

Conclusion:

You’re not alone in this journey. There are many organizations actively working toward the mission of supporting family caregivers, including us! If taking care of your aging parent or loved one starts to become too much, we are here to listen and see if we’re a fit to help. We offer a complimentary discovery call, assessment, and home inspection to provide you with a customized plan to support you and your loved one.

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