support for families who aren't direct carers?

[HufflepuffRavenclaw]

Does anyone know of any communities or support groups or similar for families affected by dementia? My dad is deteriorating fast and we are fighting to get support in place for my mum and him to manage. But both my brother and I feel like we are totally exhausted and anxious about the whole situation - the constant worry and feeling on edge. (Plus I'm menopausal which really doesn't help).

There must be people out there running support groups where you can go and have a good old moan to people who get it.

The Elderly Parents board has a long running chat thread which was my sole source of sanity over my 10 year journey with my mums dementia. There is an Alzheimers society online forum, but I found the EP board much better as a child of the affected person

Totally feel for you, MiL is pretty bad, not a lot is getting done about it and it's very frustrating. So sad too.

I've found the EP forum here a good source of help.

thank you so much, will head over to the EP board. I have a couple of good real life friends who have parents in the same position so can sound off to them as well.

It's hard, isnt it.

You can ring Alzhiemer's Society for support or advice. I've rung them a couple of times when I have been tearful having had a tough day dealing with a parent with Alzhiemer's. I am also going through the menopause and insomnia and anxiety doesn't help.

I've also found the Alzhiemer's Society online forum, Talking Point, very good for support or advice from other people going through the same thing with a family member.

Care uk may run meet ups in your area for carers. You may well be able to go, it is worth ringing to find out.

I really hope you manage to get things sorted out for your Dad and Mum. It isn't easy but you have to take it one day at a time.