Care to Share? How Facebook Groups Increase Support for Family Caregivers

Family caregivers often experience insufficient social connection and social support as they care for their loved ones. As the U.S. population ages, addressing these oversights is important for the wellbeing of both caregivers and those they care for. Through qualitative interviews and surveys with family caregivers, this thesis explores how group interactions in these digital caring communities provide emotional validation, support, encouragement, and practical advice to family caregivers. Findings highlight the ability of Facebook groups to create meaningful connections in family caregivers’ lives, enhancing caregivers’ wellbeing while also recognizing a need for more formal support and resources in their daily lives. Based on these insights, this thesis calls for a fundamental shift in how America understands and values caregiving, reframing it as a collective responsibility rather than an individual burden.