1. Things to Know About Support Groups Rayna Neises 18:38

Rayna Neises, ACC, host, discusses support groups, what might be keeping you from being a part, what to expect and various kinds of groups. 

  • [1:48] What could be holding you back from joining a support group:
    • [2:10] Feeling that you will be put on the spot and must share your story
    • [3:00] Feeling uncertain regarding what you would share about your loved one and concerned that others will be critical
    • [4:00] Thought that you would feel depressed or sad hearing other’s stories
    • [5:19] Not knowing what to expect
  • [6:00] When choosing a support group, it is important to find a good fit.
  • [6:32] Groups should have a structure they follow.
  • [8:16] Why attend?
    • [9:16] Reduce isolation
    • [10:00] Relieve stress
    • [10:35] Gain education
    • [11:26] Become more balanced
    • [14:15] Friendships
  • [15:09] Different kinds of groups
    • Peer-Peer or Mutual
    • Association Groups
    • In-Person
    • Online
    • Facebook
  • [16:17] Try out the group to be sure it is a good fit. If it is not, do not be afraid to leave it and try a different one.
  • [16:43] Visit aseasonofcaring.com and find out more about Rayna’s free monthly support group or Nourish for Caregiver's faith-based weekly support group.
  • [17:17] In June, join her book study via her Facebook group to find support through her book, No Regrets: Hope for Your Caregiving Season.
Rayna Neises A Season of Caring

Rayna Neises understands the joys and challenges that come from a season of caring. She helped care for both of her parents during their separate battles with Alzheimer’s over a thirty-year span. She is able to look back on those days now with no regrets – and she wishes the same for everyone caring for aging parents.

Rayna is the author of No Regrets: Hope for Your Caregiving Season, an ICF certified coach, the host of “A Season of Caring” podcast, Positive Approach® to Care (PAC)Independent Certified Trainer and speaker who is passionate about offering encouragement, support, and resources for regret-free caring aimed at preventing family caregivers from aimlessly wandering through this important season of life.

Rayna lives on a farm in southeast Kansas with her husband, Ron, and small pack of adorable dogs. She is the baby of her family, but most would never guess that. She is a former teacher who enjoys crafts of all kinds and spending time with her grandkids most of all.