Caregiver Support Resources: Find Local and Online Help

If you are caring for an older adult and recent changes—like the temporary closure of senior centers, adult day programs, and limited access to medical offices—have disrupted your routine, you may be feeling increased caregiver stress and burnout. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many families to adjust quickly, often without the usual supports that allowed caregivers to maintain work, personal time, and respite.

Recently I worked with a caregiver who had been teleworking while her husband, who has dementia, attended an adult day program and received help from a home health aide. Those programs and in-home supports allowed her to continue working and to step away from caregiving responsibilities at regular intervals. When the day program closed and the home aide became ill, she suddenly found herself trying to work full time while supervising and caring for her husband at home. She was exhausted, overwhelmed, and unsure where to turn for help.

That conversation highlighted a key point: caregivers need access to support—and many don’t know where to look. Below is a concise, practical list of reputable caregiver support resources, hotlines, and options for emotional care. These resources focus on caregiver support, caregiver burnout prevention, and guidance for those caring for people with dementia during the COVID-19 era.

1. CaregiverAction.org

CaregiverAction.org provides a free caregiver helpline and a broad set of resources tailored to family caregivers, including guidance for caregiving during COVID-19. If you need immediate information or someone to talk with about practical issues and community supports, search for CaregiverAction.org or contact their helpline listed on their site. They offer tools, tips, and a community for caregiver support.

2. The Family Caregiver Alliance

The Family Caregiver Alliance is a long-standing organization offering information, education, and support services for caregivers. They maintain a daytime hotline and publish resources on caregiving topics, including managing dementia behaviors, legal and financial planning, and caregiver self-care. Look up Family Caregiver Alliance for details and their business-hours helpline.

3. Alzheimer’s Association

If you are caring for someone with dementia of any type, the Alzheimer’s Association operates a 24/7 helpline to answer questions, provide guidance, and connect you with local supports. Their helpline is available around the clock for information and emotional support for caregivers dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

4. Talk Therapy and Finding a Therapist

Therapy can be very helpful when you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed from caregiving responsibilities. Many therapists now offer telehealth sessions, which can be especially useful if you cannot leave home. Ways to find a therapist include:

1. Contact your health insurance plan to see whether behavioral health or mental health services are covered and to view in-network providers. Calling the number on your insurance card or checking the insurer’s provider directory online can help you locate covered therapists and psychiatrists.
2. Use reputable directories and professional listings to compare therapists’ specialties, training, and approaches. Look for clinicians who list experience with caregiver stress, grief, or dementia-related family dynamics.
3. Ask about telehealth availability and whether the therapist offers brief consultations by phone or video to determine fit before committing to ongoing sessions.

5. Online Therapy Apps

Online therapy apps and platforms provide flexible access to counseling and can be a practical option for caregivers who need convenience and scheduling flexibility. These services typically offer messaging, scheduled video sessions, or phone appointments. A few well-known options include Talkspace, BetterHelp, and Regain. If you choose an app, verify licensure and privacy protections, and confirm how the platform matches you with a therapist.

Additional tips for caregivers:

• Prioritize short breaks: Even brief, regular pauses for self-care can reduce stress and improve resilience.
• Seek local respite options: Some community programs, faith groups, or volunteer organizations may offer short-term respite or check-in services.
• Use peer support: Connecting with other caregivers through support groups—online or by phone—can normalize your experience and provide practical coping strategies.
• Be open to asking for help: Family members, friends, and neighbors may be willing to take on small tasks like grocery runs, medication pick-ups, or a short visit to provide social stimulation for the person you care for.

In closing, you don’t have to manage caregiving alone. A range of free resources, hotlines, and professional supports exist to help reduce caregiver burnout, manage stress, and find practical solutions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reach out to the organizations and options above when you need information, emotional support, or concrete help—getting support is a sign of strength, not weakness.