The pressure on family caregivers is increasing. Our country is aging, more and more elderly people feel lonely and there is a shortage of care personnel. This is precisely why care circles are growing. The starter of the circle, Henk Geene, indicates “people are looking for solutions close to home”. A circle consists of people who want to do daily things for each other; a chat, an errand, a chore or walking the dog. For yourself as an informal caregiver this can give you some air, the little bit of support that allows you to carry on with all the tasks.
Tips on starting a circle;
- An honest consideration: what are you asking for and what can you offer
Before asking others to join you, it's important to get clear on what you need. What are you running on empty? What can you no longer carry alone? And what exactly do you like to do yourself? This openness is the basis for a healthy circle.
- Who do you know? Who do you want to get involved?
Many people underestimate how many people like to help. Think of neighbors, acquaintances from sports or church, former colleagues, parents from school, or people you meet regularly in the neighborhood. A circle works best when people live within walking or biking distance.
- Ask for help
People often want to help, but don't know how. Concrete makes it easy:
- “Can you bring a meal every Thursday?”
- “Could you drive to the hospital once a month?”
- “Can you sit with my dad for an hour so I can run errands?”
The more specific the question, the more likely a yes.
- Choose a communication tool; the app, one schedule or flyer in your apartment complex
A circle stands or falls with overview. This can be done simply:
- a WhatsApp group
- a shared schedule
- cards or flyers in the neighborhood
- contact through the community center or local organizations
Many circles have one ‘connector’: someone who keeps the overview and is the point of contact. This need not always be the caregiver.
- See each other!
A circle only works if people keep seeing each other. Therefore, organize low-key moments:
- a stroll
- a coffee moment
- shuffleboard together
- a monthly check-in
Meeting creates trust - and trust makes people dare to help each other.
Why this is the right time
The rapid growth of care circles shows that the Netherlands is ready for a different way of caring: closer, more humane, and less dependent on overburdened professionals. Health insurers and industry associations now also see the value of these networks and are increasingly supporting them.
