Caregiving Podcasts for Connection and Self-Care
Caregiving can feel like the loneliest job in the world. You’re surrounded by medical professionals, friends, and family, yet often no one truly understands the weight you carry or the complex emotions you navigate daily.
But podcasts are one way to remind yourself that millions of people doing exactly what you’re doing. They’re tired too. They’re scared too. They question themselves too. And they’ve found ways to keep going, to find moments of joy and meaning, to care for their loved ones while also honoring their own needs.
Unlike books that require your full attention or support groups that need you to be somewhere at a specific time, podcasts meet you where you are. Here’s what makes podcasts particularly valuable for caregivers:
They fit into the “cracks” of your day. You can listen while driving to yet another doctor’s appointment, preparing dinner, waiting in a hospital lobby, or taking that rare moment for yourself on a walk. One former caregiver shared that she realized podcasts were lighter than books after exhausting days of juggling responsibilities, and they helped her use errand time productively while suddenly feeling wiser after each episode.
They connect you to people who get it. When you hear another caregiver describe the exact frustration, fear, or moment of dark humor you’ve experienced but never voiced, something shifts. You’re not alone. You’re not failing. This is just hard, and other people know exactly how hard.
They offer both emotional support and practical wisdom. The best caregiving podcasts strike a balance—they validate your feelings while also providing actionable strategies. One episode might help you understand Medicare, another might give you permission to feel angry sometimes, and another might teach you how to talk to your kids about a grandparent’s dementia.
They’re free and anonymous. No registration, no explaining your situation to strangers, no pressure to share or participate. Just you, your earbuds, and voices that understand.
Find a podcast that fits
With so many options available on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, you might wonder where to start. Consider what you need most right now:
If you’re caring for someone with dementia, look for shows specifically focused on Alzheimer’s and memory care. If you’re juggling work and caregiving, seek out podcasts that address that balancing act. If you’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed, find shows that emphasize caregiver wellness and self-care. If you need practical information, choose podcasts known for featuring healthcare professionals and experts.
Most people who listen to podcasts find it helpful to sample several until they find hosts and styles that resonate with them. Some people prefer shorter episodes that get right to the point, while others appreciate longer, more in-depth conversations.
So, plug in those earbuds. Find a show that speaks to you. And give yourself the gift of connection, support, and the reminder that you don’t have to figure this all out on your own.
Your loved one is lucky to have you caring for them. But you deserve care too—and sometimes that care can come from a voice in your ear telling you that you’re doing better than you think, and you’re not alone.