Why Every Caregiver Needs a Strong Community to Keep Going?
In celebration of National Caregiver Day on April 1, we collaborated with one of our dedicated caregivers, Klein Llamoso, to talk about something that often gets overlooked, the power of community in caregiving.
Caregiving is one of the most selfless jobs out there. You show up every day, care for others, and give your time, energy, and heart. But here’s something that not enough people talk about: it can feel incredibly lonely.
It’s strange, isn’t it? You spend your whole day surrounded by people, clients, patients, families, but at the end of the day, it still feels like you’re carrying everything alone.
Many caregivers feel this way, but they don’t always have the space to talk about it. They push through exhaustion, keep their emotions in check, and put others first.
But here’s the truth: caregiving was never meant to be done alone.
To understand why, we sat down with Klein to talk about how community, both online and offline, helps caregivers survive and thrive. His insights shed light on a truth every caregiver needs to hear: You don’t have to carry this alone.
Caregiving Can Feel Isolating. Was There a Moment When You Realized You Weren’t Alone in This Journey? How Did That Change Things for You?
“It’s true that our roles can feel isolating at times. However, I’m fortunate to be surrounded by friends in the same profession. When we get the chance to connect, we talk about the challenges we face on the job and the difficulties we encounter. It’s comforting to know that you’re heard, understood, and supported. Plus, it’s helpful to share advice on how we each unwind and de-stress after a long, exhausting day.
Even when we can’t meet up in person, technology plays a huge role in keeping us connected—whether through chats, text messages, or phone calls. As the saying goes, ‘I’m only one phone call away.’”
Klein’s experience is one many caregivers can relate to. Caregiving can feel like a lonely road, but it doesn’t have to be.
What changes everything? Knowing that someone else understands.
Having a fellow caregiver say, “I get it. I’ve been there too.” can be enough to remind you that you’re not alone.
What Kind of Support or Advice Have You Received From Other Caregivers That Stuck With You? How Did It Help You in Your Role?
“It’s not just about giving the best advice, these are fundamental principles I learned from my program. Always remember DIPPS in every care you provide: Dignity, Independence, Preferences, Privacy, and Safety (Sorrentino, Remmert, & Wilk, 2021). These values ensure that clients are treated with respect and compassion. We are caring for people, and no matter how challenging their temperaments may be at times, they are living, breathing human beings. Aging is difficult, and it’s crucial to never abuse your power as a caregiver.
Be culturally sensitive and culturally aware. We work with clients from diverse backgrounds, different from our own, so we must respect their beliefs and practices. At the same time, we should never pass judgment, even if their values differ from ours.”
This advice is simple but powerful. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily routine of caregiving—following schedules, assisting with medications, ensuring safety—but at the heart of it all, caregiving is about people.
The best caregivers never forget that.
They remember that every person they care for has a story, a history, a family. They are more than just clients. They are humans who deserve to be treated with dignity, no matter their age or condition.
And that’s something that caregivers can remind each other of, especially on the hard days.
Online or In-Person, Connecting With Other Caregivers Can Make a Huge Difference. Where Do You Find Your Support System, and What Does It Mean to You?
“My support system consists of a mix of personal and professional connections. I rely on close friends, family, and colleagues who understand the unique challenges of caregiving. We share experiences, offer encouragement, and exchange practical advice.
Having this network means having a safe space to vent, seek guidance, and feel validated. It helps me navigate the challenges of caregiving with confidence, knowing I have people to lean on. It reminds me that I’m not alone and that support is always within reach, even when things get tough.”
For caregivers, a support system is not optional—it’s essential.
Without it, burnout happens fast. The emotional weight builds up. The exhaustion turns into resentment. The love for the job starts to fade.
That’s why community matters.
Whether it’s a group chat with fellow caregivers, an online forum, or a local support group, having people to lean on makes all the difference.
If you’re reading this and you don’t have a support system yet, start small.
- Reach out to another caregiver.
- Join a Facebook group for caregivers.
- Have coffee with a coworker.
Because caregiving was never meant to be done alone.
If a Caregiver Out There Is Struggling in Silence, Feeling Like No One Understands, What Would You Say to Them?
“It’s important to understand that caregiver fatigue is real, and it’s not just physical exhaustion. It can also be emotional, mental, or even spiritual fatigue (Sorrentino, Remmert, & Wilk, 2021). Being aware of the signs—like feeling irritable, isolated, or emotionally drained—can help you take steps to care for yourself too. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary to continue providing the best care for others.
Talk to someone you trust, whether it’s a friend, a fellow caregiver, or a professional. Joining a support group, online or in person, can make a huge difference—you’ll find others who truly understand what you’re going through. Remember, you deserve support and compassion just as much as the people you care for. What you’re going through is incredibly challenging, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Reaching out for support doesn’t mean you’re weak—it means you’re strong enough to recognize that caregiving is tough, and everyone needs help sometimes. You’re doing an incredible job, even on the days it feels impossible.”
Let’s be real—caregiving is hard.
Some days, you feel invisible. Some days, the exhaustion is unbearable. Some days, you wonder if anyone truly sees what you’re going through.
But if you’re reading this, let this be your reminder: You are not alone.
There is a whole community of caregivers out there who understand. Who have been where you are. Who know exactly what it feels like to give and give until there’s nothing left.
So please, don’t carry this alone. Find your people. Lean on them. Let them lean on you.
Because the best caregivers are not the ones who do it alone, they’re the ones who know when to ask for help.