People of all kinds use support groups- wives, husbands, children, siblings, other relatives, and friends. Whether targeted to a subgroup or not, support groups are made up of people going through similar experiences and having similar concerns. Support groups have been proven to decrease the number of systematic disturbances the caregiver experiences and improve the caregiver's well being. Support groups provide a social and emotional support for the caregiver. Support groups DO NOT solve the caregiver's problems, but reduce the sources of stress and enhance the caregiver's resources.
Interventions can change the impact of the patient's disability on the caregiver's life.
Support Groups that provide socialization for the caregiver are proven to be effective. Studies have also shown that group members benefit from sharing personal experiences and ventilating feelings. Support groups help caregivers that are dealing with difficult family decisions or are struggling with social isolation. The caregiver seeking support should use the group to release feelings and experiences. Groups are also helpful to the caregiver that asks questions of the other members.