• Is the meeting content relevant to the members' needs?
• Is the meeting location convenient and accessible to the majority of members?
• Is the meeting schedule adequate for members?
• Are members satisfied with the conduct of the group?
• Are members satisfied with their level of participation in the group?
• Have the members' needs changed?
• How will the group publicize its availability to potential new members?

Steps to take

• Select a group leader or rotating schedule of leaders and/or facilitators
• Establish clear ground rules:
  • Confidentiality — Keep discussions between group members only.
  • Respect — Let each person speak without interruption.
  • Guest speakers — Keep introductions short; let guest speakers present their topics.
  • Patience — Be patient towards group members, especially those in need.
  • Constructive discussion — Confine group discussions to issues and coping strategies specific to the group. Deal with external matters privately.
  • Group ownership — It's your group. Speak out, be respectful, stay on track.
  • Finish meetings on time but let attendees arrive as they can.
• Select a meeting place, schedule and meeting format
• Hold regular meetings
• Solicit feedback from members on the effectiveness of the group
• Make group decisions about changes, as necessary.

Sample discussion topics for caregiver support groups

• responsibilities and rewards of caregiving
• how to handle day-to-day problems
• information on community and support services
• self-advocacy
• advocating for the care recipient
• effects of change and loss on marital and family relationships
• learning about health boundaries
• warning signs of caregiver stress
• ways to relieve caregiver stress
• taking care of yourself
• what to say and do when you can no longer be a full-time or part-time caregiver
• long distance caregiving
• coping with your feelings
• dealing with grief and moving on
• facing the day when placement in long-term care is a necessity