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So often I hear, “no one wakes up and decides they want to be a caregiver.” Taking care of a loved one is a huge responsibility. However, it is just as important to focus on the caregiver.

Frequently, those who are thrust into the caregiving role aren’t equipped or experienced. For example, the business executive who worked for 40 years outside of the home now faced with caring for his or her spouse. Oftentimes, caregivers are overwhelmed, frustrated, and confused by all the new responsibilities. Additionally, the caregiver may even have limitations or health issues of their own.

Because caregiving is often hard and lonely,  it is important to find advice and support for the caregiver.

Check out these 10 caregiver websites:

AARP

www.aarp.org

Aging Care

www.agingcare.com

Care.com

www.care.com

The Caregiver Space

www.thecaregiverspace.org

Caring

www.caring.com

Daily Caring

www.dailycaring.com

Family Caregiver Alliance

www.caregiver.org 

Leezas Care Connection

www.leezascareconnection.org

National Alliance for Caregiving

www.caregiving.org

National Family Caregivers Association

www.caregiveraction.org

Of course, the caregiver may be too busy. In that case, research these websites yourself. Come up with solutions to help with certain caregiver challenges. For example, a caregiver may have a hard time getting their loved one dressed. Find articles to help them. Or a loved one may want to age-in-place. So look into ways for the caregiver to make the home a safer place. Figure out the issues that the caregiver will face as an illness progresses.

Additionally, you can look for ideas on these websites to assist the caregiver with their responsibilities. Post questions for specific advice. Oftentimes, someone knows exactly what the caregiver is going through.

Help the caregiver find support. Many of these caregiver websites offer connections to support groups.

Finally, consider listening to caregiver podcasts. While websites are helpful, a caregiver may only have time to listen while doing another task. Check out the 7 caregiver podcasts you need in your life.

Know of any other helpful websites for caregivers? List them in the comment section below.  

Parts of this article have been excerpted from Estate Planning for the Sandwich Generation: How to Help Your Parents and Protect Your Kids.

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