Adult caregivers need support, too. Local groups offer a place to share experiences, find resources and remember they are not alone.

There is a quiet population of people in our communities carrying a tremendous responsibility, often without recognition or much-needed support. They are the adult children, spouses, relatives and friends caring for loved ones who can no longer manage on their own.

Caregiving is an act of love, but it can also be physically exhausting, emotionally draining and socially isolating. For many, it becomes a second full-time job, added to the demands of employment, raising families and managing their own households.

As parents and other loved ones grow older, their needs can change dramatically. Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease present particularly difficult challenges. Families may find themselves caring for someone whose memory, personality and ability to perform everyday tasks are gradually changing. The person they have known for decades may no longer recognize them or may require constant supervision.

Even when the need for care is not related to dementia, helping an elderly loved one navigate declining health, mobility problems, medications, medical appointments and everyday activities can take an enormous toll.

And caregivers don’t always recognize the toll it is taking on them.

Three common warning signs of caregiver stress are physical and emotional exhaustion, irritability and mood changes, and social withdrawal. Persistent fatigue, headaches, anxiety, frustration and losing interest in activities that once brought pleasure can all signal that a caregiver needs help.

Too often, caregivers put their own needs last. They may feel guilty taking time away from a loved one, reluctant to ask relatives for assistance or convinced that nobody else can provide the same level of care.

But caring for yourself is not selfish. It is essential to being able to care for someone else.

That is why caregiver support groups are so important. They provide more than an opportunity to talk. They offer a place to meet others who understand the daily challenges, exchange practical advice, learn about available resources and realize that the difficulties they face are not theirs alone.

There are several opportunities for caregivers in Orange County to find that support, including groups specifically for families dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, as well as groups open to anyone caring for an elderly or ill loved one.

These services are free and, in some cases, offer respite care so caregivers can participate without worrying about leaving their loved ones unattended.
Taking advantage of these resources should not be viewed as an admission that someone cannot handle the responsibility. It is a recognition that caregiving was never meant to be done alone.

We should also remember that caregivers need support from the broader community. Family members, neighbors and friends can make a meaningful difference simply by offering to run an errand, prepare a meal, sit with someone for an afternoon or give a caregiver an occasional break.

A phone call, a visit or a sincere offer of help can mean more than we realize.

As our population ages, the number of people facing these responsibilities will continue to grow. We need to make sure that the people providing care do not become invisible in the process.

The person receiving care matters. So does the person providing it.
If you are caring for a loved one, take the time to seek help, attend a support group or simply talk to someone who understands. You deserve support, too.

Local caregiver support groups
The following groups offer free support to caregivers in Orange County. All are open to the public, although advance registration is required or encouraged.

For caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia
The Alzheimer’s Association coordinates several support groups. For exact locations, additional information or confirmation that a group is meeting during inclement weather, call 845-695-2247 or 800-272-3900.
• Hand in Hand Care: 25 Myrtle Ave., Middletown. Meets the third Wednesday of the month at 2:30 p.m. Free respite care is available during the group; preregistration is required.
• Cornerstone Family Healthcare: 147 Lake St., Newburgh. Spanish-speaking group meets the second Tuesday of the month from 2 to 2:30 p.m. in the large community room.
• The Promenade Adult Day Care: 264 Windsor Highway, New Windsor. Meets the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. Free respite care is available during the group; preregistration is required.

For caregivers of elderly loved ones
The Caregivers of the Elderly Support Group, facilitated by the Orange County Office for the Aging, is free and open to friends and family members caring for elderly loved ones.

The group combines education and problem-solving with an opportunity to share experiences and feelings.

Meetings are held the second Monday of the month from 6 to 7:30 p.m., except in February and October, when they are held on the fourth Monday because of holidays.

Meetings take place at The Promenade at Middletown, 70 Fulton St., Middletown. Preregistration is appreciated because refreshments are served.

For information, contact Colleen Hamel at 845-615-3733.

For all caregivers
Support groups open to all friends and family members caring for loved ones are also available, regardless of the medical condition or type of disease involved. Light refreshments are served.

For additional information about caregiver support groups and resources, visit Care.com.

Reaching out is a first step. No one should have to navigate the challenges of caring for a loved one entirely on their own.