Resources for caregivers

A support group of four adults in their fifties and sixties laughing together in a sunlit community room

You do not have to work this out alone, and the organisations below exist precisely so that you do not have to.

We are not affiliated with any of them and we get nothing from listing them.

A Black man in his fifties arriving at a front door with a plant in hand

National organisations

  • Alzheimer's Association. Runs a 24 hour helpline on 800-272-3900, staffed by people who can talk through a situation at any hour. Also lists local chapters and support groups.
  • National Institute on Aging. Plain-language information from the National Institutes of Health, without a commercial interest.
  • Eldercare Locator. A public service connecting you to services in your own area, including respite care and transport.

In San Diego

we are based in San Diego, so we know these better than most.

A small group of friends in their sixties and seventies, mixed races and both genders, singing in a choir mid-song, folders raised
A Latina woman in her fifties and her father in his seventies listening to a pharmacist pointing something out on a box

Support groups are worth more than they sound

People resist them, and then find them useful.

The value is less the information than being in a room with people who already understand, and who will not be shocked by anything you say. Most areas have both in-person and online groups, and the national organisations above will find one near you.

A white woman in her seventies and her adult son walking arm in arm past jacaranda trees

If things are urgent

some situations are not a support group problem.

Sudden confusion developing over hours or days needs medical attention now, not an appointment next month. So does a fall with a head injury, or any sudden change in alertness. If someone is at immediate risk, call your local emergency number.

If you are struggling badly yourself, that is also a reason to contact your own doctor. Caregiver depression is common and treatable.

A couple in their seventies gardening together and laughing i

Where to go next

if you are at the beginning of this, start here.

Worried about a parent's memory covers the first steps, and caring for a loved one covers what to put in place early.