Exploring the Dynamics of Online Social Support for ADRD Caregivers: A Study on Online Peer Support Groups

Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) pose substantial caregiving challenges, impacting caregivers' mental health and overall wellbeing. The increasing role of online platforms in providing social support to these caregivers marks an emerging research field. This study seeks to explore the nature of online discussions and social support dynamics within peer support groups for ADRD caregivers. A qualitative analysis was carried out on posts and comments from three distinct ADRD caregiver support communities on two popular online platforms – two sub-Reddits, and ALZ Connected. We found recurring themes across these platforms including the stressors associated with ADRD caregiving. Caregivers on these platforms not only engage in information exchange but share emotional expression, and mutual provision of empathy and courage. Emotional support seeking was found to be more prominent on Reddit than the Alzheimer Association's online support community, ALZConnected. We also found that COVID-19 significantly impacted the supportseeking strategies among caregivers on these platforms. Therefore, these insights underscore the pivotal role of online communities in providing providing relief and guidance to ADRD caregivers. Based on the prevalent support-seeking patterns and discussion themes identified, we propose recommendations for future research and design considerations for online support platforms tailored for ADRD caregivers.