For seniors who are caregivers, telephone-support groups may be an effective way of reducing social isolation (Stewart et al. 2006). A study on caregiving in Elliot Lake recommended that, to enhance social participation among caregivers, the needs of care recipients must be met. Other recommendations included organizing social activities with both the caregiver and recipient involved, as well as activities that involve only the caregiver.
For spousal caregivers caring for partners with dementia, adult day programs are an effective way of providing respite (Sussman and Regehr, 2009).