After you recover from the shock of learning a loved one has Alzheimer's Disease, the questions start to torment you. You'll face a tumult of emotions, worries and fears about the future.
Facing Alzheimer's Disease is daunting. Don't try to do it by yourself. Find yourself an Alzheimer's support group.
By attending an Alzheimer's support group in your area, you find a place where family members unify with others facing the same challenges.
An Alzheimer's support group provides information about the progress of Alzheimer's disease and access to resources you'll need on your journey.
Experienced caregivers share what they have learned and help you deal with the frustrations, sadness and isolation of the disease. Attending an Alzheimer's support group also validates your identity as a caregiver as well as the importance of taking care of yourself throughout the caregiving journey.
You'll find the answers to a lot of questions in an Alzheimer's support group like:
How do I find home care?
What legal issues should I be aware of?
What financial help is available?
How do I apply for it?
What medications seem to work the best?
What do I need to know about moving my loved one to a care facility?
A well run Alzheimer's support group provides another important benefit: it provides hope for the future.
By attending regularly, you get much needed emotional support as you share your experiences with others struggling with the same difficult issues. It also gives you the opportunity to laugh about some of the lighter moments of the disease, build friendships and enjoy others.
The Value of Joining An Alzheimer's Support Group
Some of the many reasons to participate in a support group include:
Gaining insight about managing the disease Learning effective coping strategies
Building new relationships
Discovering a sense of fellowship and community
Finding an emotional outlet
Receiving support from others
Developing new caregiving skills that make life easier Helping others while helping yourself
How To Find a Local Alzheimer's Support group
The easiest way to find a nearby Alzheimer's Support Group is online through the Alzheimer's Association alz.org/apps/findus.asp alz.org/apps/findus.asp You can also find them listed in the yellow pages or the local Agency on Aging. Hospitals, rehab centers, assisted living communities, nursing homes and churches may also sponsor a support group.
Meetings may be every other week or monthly. Some meet during the day, others in the evening. Some Alzheimer's support groups even offer in home respite care to allow time strapped caregivers the opportunity to attend the meetings.
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