You Don't Have to Go It Alone

In partnership with

Nobody tells you when you become a caregiver that the silence can be deafening.

You're managing medications, doctor appointments, and daily care. You're handling tasks you never imagined doing. And somewhere along the way, the phone stops ringing as much. The guys from work drift away. Even close friends seem unsure what to say anymore.

You might tell yourself you're fine handling this solo. After all, you've tackled tough situations before. But caregiving for someone with dementia isn't meant to be a one-man operation. And finding other men who truly understand what you're going through is necessary.

Why Male Caregivers Need Each Other

You've probably noticed that most caregiver support groups feel like you've walked into the wrong room. You show up, look around, and realize you're the only guy there. The conversation might focus on feelings and emotions in ways that don't match how you process stress. Nothing wrong with that approach—it just might not be yours.

Other male caregivers get it differently. They understand the frustration of learning to cook meals you've never made. They know what it's like to feel your identity shift from husband or son to full-time caregiver. They've felt that same reluctance to ask for help, that same drive to fix something that can't be fixed. When you talk with them, you don't have to explain the context. They already know.

Where to Find Men Who Understand

Start with online communities specifically for male caregivers. Facebook groups like "Male Caregivers Forum" or "Sons and Husbands Caring for Loved Ones" offer 24/7 connection with men across the country facing similar challenges. You can read, comment when you want, or just lurk and learn—whatever feels comfortable.

Local Alzheimer's Association chapters sometimes run men's caregiver support groups. These meet-ups often have a different feel than mixed groups—more practical problem-solving, less formal structure. Some even meet at coffee shops or diners instead of hospital conference rooms. Call your local chapter and ask if they offer anything specifically for male caregivers.

Don't overlook unexpected places. Your church or community center might have men dealing with the same situation. That neighbor who waves from his driveway? He might be caring for his wife too. Sometimes the most valuable connections happen organically when you're willing to mention what you're dealing with.

What Connection Actually Looks Like

Forget the image of sitting in a circle sharing deep feelings (unless that works for you). Connection between male caregivers often looks different. It might be:

A text thread where you swap medication management tips at 2 AM. Meeting another guy for coffee once a month to trade war stories and strategies. A quick phone call when you're about to lose it and need someone who won't judge. Sharing a laugh about the absurdity of learning to operate a washing machine at 68. Getting practical advice about when it's time to consider memory care.

These connections don't have to be deep and emotional to be valuable. Sometimes just knowing another man is dealing with the same frustrations—and surviving—makes all the difference.

The Permission You're Looking for

Maybe you're thinking you don't have time for this. Or that connecting with others feels like admitting you can't handle things alone. Let me give you permission to set that thinking aside.

Reaching out to other male caregivers isn't weakness—it's wisdom. The guys who navigate this journey best aren't the ones who tough it out in isolation. They're the ones who build a small network of men who understand. They trade practical tips. They check in on each other. They remind each other they're not crazy when things feel overwhelming.

You don't need a large tribe. Even one or two connections with men who get it can change everything. These relationships won't take your responsibilities away, but they'll make the load feel less lonely.

Your Action Plan This Week

Choose one step to take in the next seven days:

1. Search Facebook for "male caregivers" and join one relevant group. Introduce yourself with a simple post about your situation.

2. Call your local Alzheimer's Association chapter (1-800-272-3900) and ask about male caregiver support groups in your area.

3. Reach out to one man you suspect might be in a caregiving situation—a neighbor, someone from church, a former colleague. A simple "Hey, I'm dealing with caring for my wife who has dementia. Are you managing something similar?" can open doors.

4. Post in an online forum asking one specific question you're struggling with right now. Don't worry about it being perfect—just get it out there.

5. If you know even one other male caregiver, send him a text this week. Check in. Share something you're dealing with. That's connection.

You've been handling more than most men can imagine. You don't need to prove anything by doing it alone. Your tribe is out there, and they're looking for you too.

The daily health habit you’ll actually stick with…

This time of year, it’s SO hard to stay in control of your health.

Holiday travel (and meals!), big family gatherings, dark and cold days, it’s easy to skip that workout, sleep in later than you should, or have just one more cookie.

That’s why you need a daily health habit that’s easy to stick with.

Meet AG1: With just one quick scoop every morning, you’ll get over 75 ingredients that help support your immune health, gut health, energy, and close nutrient gaps in your diet.

Right now is the best time to get started - with every new subscription, they are giving away $126 in free gifts for the holidays.

Give AG1 a try today and take control of your health this holiday season.

Give AG1 a try today

Check out my other newsletter for anyone caring for a loved one with dementia!