What Are Alzheimer's Support Groups?
It depends on the group. Some are specifically organized to help a particular subgroup of caregivers -- adult children, for example, or male caregivers. Some are set up for those whose family member is in a certain stage of the disease. Groups for early-stage Alzheimer's groups are increasingly available. Some gatherings have a faith-based or spiritual component.
Groups vary in their purpose, organization, and "feel." Some support groups are formal, with guest lecturers scheduled to talk about common topics of interest to caregivers, like managing problematic behaviors or financial planning. Others are informal, inviting members to share stories about their experiences and give one another moral support. Many groups use a combination of these approaches, alternating candid conversations among members with lectures from special guests
Despite the differences among support groups, they have one thing in common: All have the potential to become an essential component of a caregiver's well-being and success. By blending psychological support and practical knowledge, an Alzheimer's support group is a resource that can't be replicated just by reading up on the disease or by leaning on friends or a partner for moral support.
Support groups offer caregivers and family members the opportunity to ask questions, share stories, give and receive comfort and advice, and learn more about Alzheimer's disease (including its different stages, care-giving strategies, relevant legal advice, housing and other care options, local care contacts and resources, and more).
For many caregivers, a support group is a place to exhale. You may hesitate to confide certain information or experiences with family or friends who also know the person with Alzheimer's. You may fear that you'll be judged or criticized, or worry that what's said can affect family dynamics. It's often easier for any of us to talk with strangers who aren't involved in our particular situations.
And because the other group members have "been there," they may be more likely to listen compassionately to your expressions of guilt, frustration, or anxiety, or to stories about mistakes you feel you've made or challenging situations you've faced. A confidential, positive setting for sharing your experiences -- and releasing your emotions -- is known to be a tremendously important factor in how well one copes with caregiver stress.
The trick to getting the most out of a support group is to find a good fit. Consider whether a group is convenient to your schedule and location, addresses your specific needs, and feels comfortable to you.
It's important that you feel at ease and can open up about your experiences and ask questions -- if not on your very first visit, then after you've sat in on a session or two. You may need to try out a few groups before settling on the right one. Don't be discouraged if one (or several) doesn't feel right to you -- investigate another.
Some people benefit from joining more than one group. In addition to an Alzheimer's support group, you may want to consider a group for caregivers of people with dementia of all forms, or a group for Alzheimer's List, a group organized by the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center at Washington University in St. Louis.
