As a caregiver in Hawaii, you give endlessly to those you support, but the aloha spirit thrives on connection. Amid the islands’ unique blend of beauty and challenges, like long commutes or cultural expectations around ohana, joining a support group can be a lifeline. These gatherings offer a safe space to share stories, swap tips, and find solidarity with others who truly understand. Backed by organizations like the Hawaii Family Caregiver Coalition and the Alzheimer’s Association, support groups reduce isolation and boost resilience. In 2025, options range from in-person meetups on Oahu to virtual sessions accessible from the Big Island. Let’s explore how to connect and why it matters.

Why Join a Caregiver Support Group?

Caregiving can feel solitary, even in close-knit Hawaiian communities. According to the Hawaii Caregiver Alliance, over 40% of caregivers experience high stress, but sharing experiences in a group cuts that burden in half by fostering empathy and practical advice. Groups led by trained facilitators create confidential environments to discuss everything from dementia care to self-care rituals like beachside reflection. Whether you’re caring for a kupuna with chronic needs or balancing family duties, these connections recharge your spirit and remind you that you’re part of a larger ohana.

In-Person Support Groups Across the Islands

Hawaii’s diverse islands host vibrant, location-specific gatherings. Many are free, require no reservations, and welcome all caregivers. Here’s a roundup of active options for 2025:

• Maui Adult Day Care Centers (MADCC): Multiple groups tailored to Maui’s regions. Wailuku meets at Ocean View Maui Adult Day Care Center; Upcountry at Eddie Tam Park in Makawao (bring a chair); Kahului at Kahului Maui Adult Day Care Center; and Hana at Hana Senior Center. Sessions run monthly; call 808-871-5804 for the 2025 schedule.
• Hawaii Community Caregiver Network (HCCN) – West Hawaii: Caregiver Sharing Group on the second Saturday at 11 a.m. at Regency Hualalai in Kona. Facilitated by Joann D’Addio; contact 808-773-294-8773 or joanndaddio@gmail.com to reserve.
• Alzheimer’s Association Hawaii – Oahu and Big Island: Honolulu/Ala Moana/Kakaako group on the first Tuesday, 5-6:30 p.m. at a local venue; Hilo in-person on the third Tuesday, 1-2:30 p.m. at Aging and Disability Resource Center (1055 Kinoole St.). Register via alz.org/hawaii/support or call 808-591-2771.
• The Caregiver Foundation – Oahu: Various groups facilitated with Hale Hale Hauoli Hawaii; locations vary. For details or to start one in your community, call 808-625-3782.
• Hawaii State Public Library System – Pearl City: Meets every fourth Sunday in the library’s meeting room (starting January 2025). Sponsored by The Caregiver Foundation; contact the library for updates.

Pro Tip: Bring a snack or water to these relaxed sessions. Many incorporate Hawaiian values like lokahi (unity) for deeper bonds.

Virtual Support Groups: Accessible from Anywhere

For caregivers on neighbor islands or with packed schedules, online options bridge distances without ferry hassles. These Zoom or phone-based groups often follow monthly cadences:

• Alzheimer’s Association Hawaii – East Oahu and Hawaii Island One: East Oahu virtual on the second Monday, 7-9 p.m.; Hawaii Island One on the first Wednesday, 10-11 a.m. Register at alz.org/hawaii/support or call 808-518-6649.
• Hawaii Pacific Health Cancer Caregiver Support: Second Wednesday of each month, 10-11 a.m. via Zoom. Open to all caregivers; facilitated by health pros. Details at hawaiipacifichealth.org.
• NAMI Hawaii Family Support Groups: Ongoing virtual sessions for caregivers of those with mental health challenges. Focus on coping and hope; open to all islands. Visit namihawaii.org for schedules.
• Hawaii Community Caregiver Network Online Classes: Webinars on caregiving topics, plus Facebook group for daily peer chats. Join at hawaiicaregivers.org.

Pro Tip: Test your tech setup ahead. Virtual groups often record sessions for later viewing, perfect for night-shift caregivers.

Island-Specific and Specialized Support

Hawaii’s programs honor cultural nuances. For Native Hawaiian caregivers, ALU LIKE’s Native Hawaiian Caregiver Support Program offers referrals to culturally attuned groups, counseling, and training (contact via alulike.org). The Executive Office on Aging connects you to county-specific resources: Honolulu (808-768-7700), Hawaii (808-961-8626), Maui/Molokai/Lanai (808-270-7774), or Kauai (808-241-4470). Kokua Mau provides palliative care-focused webinars and grief support lists (kokuamau.org). AARP Hawaii’s guide lists more at states.aarp.org/hawaii/caregiver-resources.

How to Get Started: Simple Steps to Join

1. Assess Your Needs: Choose in-person for community vibes or virtual for flexibility. Dementia-specific? Head to Alzheimer’s Association.
2. Reach Out: Call or email the contact listed. Most groups screen lightly for fit.
3. Prepare to Share: Come with one win or worry to break the ice. Anonymity is optional.
4. Follow Up: Many offer one-on-one follow-ups. If starting a group, The Caregiver Foundation provides free facilitation tools.

Strengthen Your Ohana Through Connection

In Hawaii, where ohana means family extends beyond blood, support groups weave you into a tapestry of shared strength. They don’t just ease the load; they celebrate the joy in caregiving too. By connecting, you honor yourself and the aloha you give daily.

Join the Conversation Today

Pick one group and attend your first meeting this month. Share your experiences in the comments or reach out to info@kupunalife.com for a personalized resource list. Together, we’re building a stronger caregiver ohana across the islands. Mahalo for your unwavering care!