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Support Groups

 

Please click HERE for a list of current support groups.

 

 

 

What is an Alzheimer's Support Group?

An Alzheimer's support group is a structured gathering of family, caregivers, loved ones, friends, and - in some groups - patients who come together to discuss issues related to coping with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Some groups may focus on education by offering presentations by invited speakers, watching a relevant video, or having a formal discussion. Most groups, however, tend to focus on providing a safe and comfortable environment where participants can gain emotional support through sharing their thoughts and concerns with one another and with the group facilitator.

What is a Support Group?

A support group is a regular gathering of individuals who come together to exchange information, ideas, and resources; to share feelings and experiences; and to reduce the sense of loneliness and isolation that often accompanies individual efforts to cope with a particular issue or life situation.

Why You May Want to Consider a Support Group

You may want to consider a support group if:

• You would like to gain a better understanding of Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

• You need help because of a current crisis.

• You want advice about specific caregiving struggles that you are facing.

• You want to be with others who are having similar experiences.

• You wish to learn about resources and options available to you or to your loved one.

The Benefits of Support Group Participation

Support groups provide:

• A chance to be part of a supportive environment or community

• An opportunity to talk, "unload," and share thoughts, feelings, and concerns with others

• A resource for learning more about dementia

• An opportunity to learn from others in similar situations

• A place to meet new people

• A chance to develop informal supports and social relationships

• A break from caregiving responsibilities.
  

At the support group, families and caregivers develop a mutual support system that can help you maintain your own health and well-being, as well as assist you in learning ways to provide optimal care for the person with dementia.

Is a Support Group a Therapy Group?

No. Although a support group can help you cope with the challenges you may be facing as a care partner to someone with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia, the group does not offer the kind of in-depth personal analysis of a therapy group. The support group is there to provide a safe, non-judgmental setting for participants to exchange information, and to share their thoughts, feelings, and concerns.

If you have concerns that you feel may be beyond the scope of your support group, talk with the group facilitator. S/he can provide suggestions and referral information so that your concerns can be adequately addressed in a more appropriate setting. You may also contact the Alzheimer's Services' office for input and ideas, or to arrange an appointment for a family consultation.

Specialty Groups

Support groups can be directed to individuals with particular needs or issues, such as those with early-stage Alzheimer's disease, those coping with bereavement following the death of a loved one, or adult children of Alzheimer's patients. If you would like to learn more about the specialty groups currently available, call the Alzheimer's Services' office for information.

You Don't Have to Go It Alone

If you are considering joining a support group, or simply want to explore whether such a group might be helpful to you, please call the Alzheimer's Services' office at (508) 775-5656 for more information. In addition to a schedule of the days, times, and locations of support groups meeting in your area, we can help you decide if such a group is appropriate to your individual needs and would be happy to answer any questions you might have. You don't have to go it alone.

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