Over the last ten years, the power of social media has influenced everyone’s lives in a multitude of ways. It’s allowed us to connect not only across the country, but the globe. This includes communities for Direct Care Professionals (DCP). DCPs can use social media communities to connect with others and share their experiences with those who understand them.
One of the most popular places to connect with other DCPs is the AARP Family Caregivers Discussion Group. Created five years ago, the Facebook group is home to 18,000 DCPs. The platform allows DCPs to connect, support each other, and provide useful tips while sharing their experiences as a DCP. This group is essential to caregivers because it allows them to be a part of the community from the comfort of their own homes.
Group members have shared personal experiences and offered suggestions like selecting the right doctor to see in a certain area. Since the group has grown so large, it may not be difficult to make new connections with others DCPs in your area.
Tips for Joining and Engaging in the Group
The group is free to join but does require answering a question and agreeing to participation rules. The group’s privacy is a major benefit to joining. Private groups mean content from the group stays in the group. Thus, no one outside of the group will see your posts or comments. Tips for participating in the group include:
- Stay engaged by reading posts and learning from other DCP experiences and stories.
- One of the group’s purposes is to have a safe space to share your caregiving frustrations. The community is supportive and can sympathize with your struggles.
- Always share your victories and positive DCP experiences!
- The group administrator and founder, Amy Goyer, holds live chats every month. Participate in them as much as you can. A variety of topics are discussed and it’s a great way to connect with other DCPs.
If you think the AARP Family Caregivers Discussion Group is right for you, click the link here to join. Remember, your acceptance requires answering a question and agreeing to group rules.
If you’d like to learn more, read the full story about the group and participant experiences below.
Online Groups Help Family Caregivers Relieve Stress, Recharge, Learn and Give Back | AARP