Top Caregiver Support Programs in Orange County

Caregiving is a marathon, not a sprint—and whatever resources you can lean on will ultimately help you endure. If you’re a caregiver in Orange County, it’s important to know that there's a wide range of organizations, programs, and resources designed to support you—no matter the diagnosis or demands.

Diagnosis-Specific Support Programs

Targeted resources can make a huge difference in both your confidence and your loved one’s care.

Alzheimer’s Orange County

Alzheimer’s Orange County is a lifeline for many caregivers. They host regular support groups across the county—places where caregivers can share experiences, ask questions, and simply feel understood. Additionally, they offer educational programs that cover everything from managing difficult behaviors to understanding the progression of the disease.

Their helpline ensures that help is always available. This is especially valuable when a crisis arises late at night or when caregivers need immediate guidance.

Alzheimer’s Association Orange County Chapter

The Alzheimer’s Association Orange County Chapter provides education, support, and resources for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. They also advocate for research advancements and community awareness to improve care and quality of life for those impacted.

Alzheimer’s Family Services Center

Alzheimer’s Family Services Center is an adult day health care facility in Orange County that offers memory care programs and support services for individuals in various stages of dementia. It also provides resources and education for caregivers — including counseling, group therapy, legal workshops, and respite services. 

ALS United Orange County 

ALS United Orange County is a nonprofit organization that offers free professional care management, home visits, and support services to individuals with ALS and their families. It also acts as a central hub for education and resources, collaborating with medical professionals and community partners to improve quality of life and advocate for research and policy change.

American Cancer Society 

The American Cancer Society is the leading cancer-fighting organization with a vision of ending cancer as we know it, for everyone. They are the only organization working to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families through advocacy, research, and patient support, to ensure everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer.

Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA) 

HDSA provides caregivers with educational resources to help individuals manage symptoms, navigate healthcare decisions, understand the long-term progression of the disease, and connect with others who are experiencing a similar journey. 

Caregivers can also get legal, financial, and advocacy support, helping families feel more prepared and empowered.

Parkinson’s Foundation – Orange County

The Parkinson’s Foundation - Orange County offers local support groups where caregivers can learn about symptom management, exercise programs, and coping strategies.

The Foundation also offers educational workshops and a dedicated helpline, helping caregivers get guidance on medical questions, treatment options, and daily care strategies. The goal being to ensure caregivers feel informed, confident, and supported in every aspect of their journey.

National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Orange County

MS caregivers face unpredictable changes, which can make caregiving stressful and complex. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society offers support groups, educational programs, and resources tailored to prepare families and reduce stress. They also provide guidance on navigating community services, planning for the future, and managing caregiver stress.

St. Jude Brain Injury Network

If you're caring for someone recovering or living with a brain injury, SJBIN can help you on the journey. St. Jude Brain Injury Network offers support groups, educational programs, and resources. They also emphasize caregiver well-being, helping families avoid burnout while providing high-quality care.

Regional Center of Orange County (RCOC)

RCOC coordinate lifelong services and support for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. The regional center is the first stop for those seeking to obtain local services and support to help them live safely and with dignity in the community. RCOC serves over 26,000 Orange County residents with autism, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, and intellectual cognitive disabilities.

General Resources & Support

Sometimes caregiving doesn’t fit neatly into one box. You might be caring for more than one loved one, or supporting someone who’s living with multiple conditions at once. In these situations, it can be especially helpful to tap into programs that cover a broad range of services—not just diagnosis-specific support. That’s where general caregiver resources and community-based organizations shine.

Caregiver Resource Center OC

Caregiver Resource Center OC provides personalized consultations, care planning, counseling, and respite services. We specialize in helping families create customized care plans that address both immediate needs and long-term goals.

Workshops and training sessions are also available, providing practical skills such as safe transfer techniques, medication management, and stress reduction strategies. Additionally, they offer support for life after caregiving, helping you from start to finish.

Orange County Office on Aging

The Orange County Office on Aging administers the Family Caregiver Support Program, providing respite care, training, and support groups for caregivers. Whether you need practical advice or just someone to listen, the Office on Aging offers vital support for caregivers managing long-term responsibilities.

Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) of Orange County

ADRC serves as a central hub for caregivers seeking information about local services. They help families navigate the sometimes overwhelming array of community programs, including adult day care, in-home support, respite options, and more.

The resource center also assists with eligibility questions and can guide caregivers in connecting with specialized programs tailored to their loved one’s needs. Their goal is to simplify the process of finding help and reduce the stress that comes with navigating complex systems.

Family Caregiver Alliance

Family Caregiver Alliance offers comprehensive resources, including legal and financial guidance, self-care strategies, and practical caregiving tips. Their programs are designed to help caregivers manage the many responsibilities that come with caring for a loved one.

Through online education, workshops, and community support, caregivers can access valuable information and peer support, helping them feel more confident and capable in their roles.

View our full list of resources here.

Additional Resources

Beyond the big-name programs and government services, Orange County has a wide range of community organizations that step in to make daily life a little easier for caregivers. Think of them as extra helping hands—filling in the gaps, easing your load, and reminding you that you don’t have to do it all on your own.

• 211 OC: connects residents in need to critical social services such as housing, job placement, food, and health insurance. Dial 2-1-1 to connect with resources.

• Adult Day Health Programs: Office on Aging Orange County offers adult day programs that provide engaging social and therapeutic activities for individuals with disabilities or cognitive impairments.

• Age Well Senior Services: Provides programs for older adults, including social, educational, and nutrition services, all designed to support caregivers and the people they care for.

• Council on Aging – Southern California: Offers elder abuse prevention, caregiver support programs, and long-term care guidance.

• Meals on Wheels Orange County: Meals on Wheels delivers nutritious meals directly to homebound seniors, supporting caregivers by reducing the burden of daily meal preparation.

• And MORE…

The bottom line

Reaching out for support is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength, foresight, and compassion for both yourself and your loved one. By connecting with these programs, you can gain practical tools, emotional support, and community connections that make caregiving a more sustainable and rewarding journey.

Remember, you don’t have to do this alone. With the right resources, guidance, and support network, caregiving in Orange County can be manageable, fulfilling, and even deeply meaningful.