Peer Support for Sustainable Caregiving
Caregiving is something everyone experiences. At times you may be the one providing care, or you may be the one receiving care. Caregiving isn’t a straightforward one-size-fits-all kind of activity, which can create uncertainty for how to best support your loved one. Support can be found through a variety of channels. Parents, siblings, friends, and neighbors can all provide necessary support. Along with your support system, consider adding peer support to the mix.
Peer support is when a group of people with shared experiences come together to give and receive help based on mutual understanding. According to Mental Health America (opens in new tab), peer support can provide several benefits to one’s life. It can improve the overall quality of life, lower the cost of health services, increase engagement with useful services, and increase health and self-management.Considering these many benefits, AKALAKA enables people who care for disabled family and friends to connect with peers virtually and locally to build their community of support.
Some services that assist with long-term care in home- and community-based settings can be valuable to care partners, but navigating available resources can be overwhelming and time consuming. Having a peer who has already navigated those obstacles may be able to offer their input and guide you through the process. Even if someone hasn’t already gone through the process, having a peer to navigate the same challenges and resources can help lessen the feeling of loneliness. Just by reducing the feeling of loneliness, the quality of life for someone can significantly increase.
Peer support has been found to decrease the overall cost of health services by reducing the need for inpatient services and lowering rehospitalization rates. Peer support allows for empathetic and respectful communication. This supportive communication may socially encourage a person experiencing anxiety or depression and complement more costly mental health services by licensed clinicians. Additionally, peer support increases engagement with health and community services. Having peers that can vouch for trusted and useful services can help when deciding which paths to pursue. Peer-based services have been found to provide more positive results and greater satisfaction. Studies found that peer-based providers communicated more validation which created a healthier and stronger relationship (opens in new tab).
Peer groups can help improve self-management skills by scheduling check-ins, group discussions, and organizing recreational outings. Consistent check-ins and group discussions help maintain a predictable timeline. Having a set schedule can help you organize any ideas or questions you want to bring up to the group. It can also help with sharing and achieving personal goals. Even achieving small goals, like eating two healthy meals a week, can provide a sense of empowerment. Participating in group outings may help improve social skills, organize transportation, and allow you to experience your community with an understanding and supportive group. Whether or not you’re a social butterfly or a shy introvert, participating in recreational activities can build your confidence and self-esteem.
Humans are naturally social beings. We have evolved to rely on one another in several ways. Though we no longer need to forage for food or fend off predators together, we still have a fundamental need for belonging and connection as we navigate the wilderness of long-term care for family and friends. Seeking a group of peers that can understand and relate to your experiences is natural and will help build a supportive community that will allow you to thrive. If you would like to get started with our community of care partners, connect with AKALAKA today.
