When it comes to regularly connecting and feeling supported by others, senior support groups are a great option. “These groups help with loneliness, which is a huge issue among seniors that can affect both mental and physical health,” notes Christopher Norman, a geriatric nurse practitioner with the National Council on Aging. “Senior support groups help build social connections, increase emotional support, and provide information on senior living and health care, which can improve their quality of life.”
Read on to learn more about specific senior support groups, how to find the right fit and more.
What are senior support groups?
Simply put, a senior support group is a group of older adults who come together regularly to share experiences and support each other. These groups, says Norman, can be formal, assembled through an organization or informal.
The benefits of these groups — not surprising in the least — are plentiful, according to Esther Cromwell, a long-time caregiver and CEO and founder of Avendelle Assisted Living, as they:
- Provide emotional support.
- Reduce feelings of isolation.
- Foster a sense of community among participants.
- Improve mental health.
- Increase socialization.
Types of senior support groups
To get the most out of a senior support group, look for one that’s tailored to your or your loved one’s needs. Here are a few types of senior support groups to consider
Social support groups for seniors
Senior loneliness has been linked to a number of serious health risks, including dementia, heart disease, premature death and more. Finding a social support group that connects seniors with others for activities, outings and more can combat feelings of isolation and provide a “sense of belonging and community,” Norman notes.
“Engaging in these groups can reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, which are common as people age and their social circles get smaller,” he adds. “These groups often stimulate activity through conversations and organized social activities, which is great for cognitive health.”
Benefits of social support groups:
Here are some of the benefits of these groups, as outlined by Norman and Cromwell:
- Enhanced overall well-being.
- Emotional support.
- Reduced feelings of loneliness and depression.
- Practical advice and coping strategies for dealing with common aging-related challenges.
- A sense of belonging (“crucial for maintaining mental health,” Cromwell notes).
- Potentially improved physical health and cognitive functioning.
Where to find social support groups
Both Normal and Cromwell recommend checking community centers first, “as they often host support groups tailored to various interests and needs,” notes Cromwell. Other places to look include:
Healthcare providers. Many healthcare providers and clinics offer or can recommend local support groups, according to Cromwell.
Online support groups. For those who may have difficulty attending in person, online support groups can provide an accessible alternative. Websites like AARP and DOROT both offer a number of free virtual events and meetings.
Religious or spiritual organizations. Many religious institutions provide support groups that combine social interaction with spiritual guidance, Cromwell explains, noting that these can be “particularly comforting for many seniors.”
Start your own! Look within your network of family, friends, friends of friends, former coworkers, fellow church parishioners, neighbors, etc. and brainstorm a convenient location for everyone interested,” Norman suggests. “Often, activities and mutual interests are inspired with conversation.”
Health and wellness senior support groups
Health and wellness senior groups may include walking clubs or even yoga classes geared towards seniors, Norman notes. These can “improve physical health, mobility and sometimes help with chronic conditions.” He adds, they also provide emotional benefits by creating a shared social experience for seniors.
“Being part of a wellness group can offer a sense of accountability and motivation,” Cromwell adds. “This may make it easier for seniors to stick to their health routines.”
Benefits of health and wellness support groups:
Norman and Cromwell list the following benefits of these types of groups:
- Improved overall physical well-being.
- Improved, or maintenance of, mobility, strength and overall health.
- Reduced risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes.
- Improved cardiovascular health.
In addition to the physical aspects, health and wellness groups also come with mental and emotional well-being benefits, Cromwell notes. These include:
- Reduced feelings of isolation and promotion of a sense of community.
- Improved mental health.
- Reduced stress, anxiety and depression.
Where to find health and wellness support groups
Local departments of parks and recreation. “Many local parks and recreation departments offer organized walking groups and fitness classes specifically designed for seniors,” explains Cromwell.
Senior centers. Another option is to check with nearby senior centers, which “often host a variety of health and wellness activities tailored to the interests and abilities of older adults.”
Healthcare providers. Ask healthcare providers for recommendations on reputable health and wellness programs in the area.
Community organizations. Cromwell suggests checking with organizations like the YMCA, which frequently provide fitness classes, walking groups and wellness workshops for seniors.
Online platforms. For those who prefer or need to participate from home, online platforms such as SilverSneakers and Senior Planet, offer virtual fitness classes and health resources tailored for seniors, notes Cromwell.
Condition-specific senior support groups
Condition-specific support groups are for older adults dealing with a particular ailment or disease, such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s. “These types of support groups provide coping strategies directly related to the condition,” notes Norman.
“Through the sharing of similar experiences, these groups offer emotional support, and participants can gain insight into managing symptoms or the latest information on treatment advances,” he continues. “They also connect seniors with others facing similar challenges, which can be very beneficial.”
Benefits of condition-specific support groups:
Here are some of the benefits for seniors attending these groups, as explained by Cromwell:
- Support and insight for managing specific challenges of their condition.
- Educational resources, such as updates on treatment options.
- Alleviation of feelings of isolation and anxiety.
- Enhancement of ability to cope.
Where to find condition-specific support groups
It’s best to stick with national associations for resources on specific conditions, if possible, Norman recommends. “These organizations often maintain regional lists of available groups and resources with contact information,” notes Norman.
A few condition-specific organizations with support groups that list either local or virtual support groups:
Other, more local places to look, per Cromwell:
- Hospitals and clinics.
- Local health departments.
- Online communities, such HealthUnlocked.
“Joining these groups allows seniors and their caregivers to navigate the complexities of their conditions with greater knowledge, support and a sense of community,” notes Cromwell.
Caregiver support groups
Those caring for clients or older loved ones need support, too — after all, caregiver burnout is very real. “Caregiver support groups offer a space to express feelings, share challenges and joys, and get advice which can help caregivers cope with their experiences and feelings,” says Norman.
Benefits of caregiver support groups:
Here are some of the rewards caregivers can reap from participating in support groups, according to Norman and Cromwell:
- Emotional support.
- Reduced feelings of isolation and stress.
- Learned coping strategies and self-care techniques.
- Lowered risk of burnout.
- Sense of community and solidarity.
Where to find caregiver support groups
To find a virtual or in-person caregiver support group, check out: 16 support groups for caregivers.
Tips for finding the right senior support group
When choosing a group, it’s important to think about the specific needs it addresses, the convenience of meeting times and locations and the overall atmosphere to make sure it aligns with your needs and values, Norman says, adding that it’s smart to “attend a few sessions as a test run before committing can help you decide if the group is a good fit.”
“Group size matters too,” adds Cromwell. “Smaller groups offer intimacy while larger ones provide a wider range of perspectives. Also, confidentiality is crucial, so the group should have clear guidelines to create a safe sharing environment.”
The bottom line
In order to find the right senior support group for yourself or a loved one, you’ll likely need to do some research on the front end. That said, the results will pay in dividends.
“By engaging in a senior support group, older adults can discuss health issues, coping strategies and life transitions in a safe and understanding environment,” Norman says. “This collective sharing and support can significantly enhance the quality of life for seniors, helping them navigate the complexities of aging with greater resilience and optimism.
