Elements of a Strong Support Network for Caregivers
Skip main navigation
Serving Havertown and surrounding areas.
Type Size
Serving Havertown and surrounding areas.
Past main navigation Contact Us

Elements of a Strong Support Network for Caregivers

Navigating the overwhelming responsibilities of caring for a senior loved one can take both an emotional and physical toll, experienced equally by family caregivers and hired professionals alike. Even with the best preparation, you may at some point need to seek outside help in order to manage your own stress and juggle day-to-day demands as a caregiver. 

Building a reliable support network is instrumental for managing stress, navigating caregiving hurdles, and connecting with others going through similar experiences – ultimately improving overall satisfaction with caregiving duties. 

Benefits of Building a Support Network

A strong support network can benefit both loved ones and caregivers in unique, important ways. Caregivers with a reliable support system report feeling more confident tackling caregiving obstacles, are less likely to suffer from depression and anxiety, have better overall physical health, and even have increased job satisfaction. 

On the other hand, for those being cared for, having access to friends and family that can help or provide conversation may play a crucial role in combating loneliness or fear as it relates to aging.

4 Core Elements of a Strong Support Network

The strength of a support network varies from person to person and should fit your specific needs. However, there are a few core elements that comprise an effective support system. 

Community-based Resources

Connecting with relevant community programs, agencies, and healthcare facilities can provide caregivers access to valuable information and resources, not to mention inside perspectives on local service providers they may not know or already be familiar with. 

Social Support Services

It is necessary to actively seek out appropriate personal networks, such as family members or friends. Visit social gathering places like elder care settings for positive connections in order to build healthy relationships based on common interests and experiences. This could include therapy groups aimed at supporting certain seniors or special conditions such as violent behavior disorders brought about by dementia or Alzheimer's Disease.

Professional Assistance

Hired professionals offering specialized services like nursing aides, home health aides, occupational therapists, physical therapists, etc., can give peace of mind. You'll know your loved one is receiving expertly qualified help tailored to their unique condition. The availability of these professionals, such as Senior Helpers Havertown, also allows you time away from caregiving duties, so it is highly recommended to take advantage of such services when needed. 

Mental Break Time and Self-care Strategies

Another critical element is to recognize your own limitations. You cannot be an effective caregiver if you never take the mental break you require. Self-care strategies for yourself are just as vital as the caregiving duties you must complete for your loved one or the person you are responsible for helping. Find time for exercise, mental health breaks, enjoyable activities, and hanging out with your other family and friends. 

Strategies for Building Your Own Support Network

To build your own support network, think outside the box and explore your options. The more prepared you are, the better equipped you will feel to manage caregiving duties. Here are a few strategies that may help:

  • Find out what services or resources are available in the area within your budget and promptly make use of them as needed.
  • Create an online caregiver support system using conferencing tools like Zoom, Hangouts, Skype, etc., so family members can "check in" on their loved one from afar.
  • Get information from reliable sources, such as senior resources centers located throughout Montgomery County.
  • Reach out to other caregivers in similar situations (via an online group) for shared experiences. If this is not possible, reach out directly to friends or family members who might be able to understand where you're coming from.
  • Senior support agencies, such as Senior Helpers Havertown's homecare services specialists, can supply reliable and qualified personal assistance whenever necessary.

Connect with Senior Helpers Havertown

No matter the stage of caregiving, it is important to know that a strong and reliable support network can serve as a safety net through this difficult journey. Senior Helpers in Havertown offers caregivers throughout Media, Newtown Square, Ambler, Glenside, and all of Montgomery County access to compassionate, certified assistance for their loved ones with mental or physical issues. If you are looking for personalized care in one's own home, look no further than Senior Helpers! Reach out today for more information about how we can assist you on this journey.