In this article, the authors discuss issues regarding the families of impaired elders in the long-term care insurance program for the elderly in Japan and the activities of self-help groups (SHGs) in the support of family caregivers in small communities. Using data from a qualitative and quantitative research study, the effects of SHGs on family caregivers were clarified. A process in which family caregivers found meaning through their participation in SHGs emerged. Through this process, SHGs alleviated the care-givers' mental distress related to caregiving, and caregivers had the potential to promote a change from traditional and cultural norms regarding family caregiving to new norms that support the use of home care services. There was also a discussion about the support that health and welfare professionals provide to caregivers both in the empowerment process and as they explain activities and issues related to caregiving to community members.
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