Finding the Right Support Group

If you are a caregiver for someone with Alzheimer’s you might find a support group good for you and for your loved one. Finding the right support group can be a bit tricky.

If the support group is for you, as a caregiver, think about what you want out of the group. Are you going there for moral support? Are you going there for educational support? Are you going there to compare notes? Do you just need to go there to listen? How often do you want to go? When is it convenient for you to go?

If you are a person living with Alzheimer's disease and can decide on your own try to determine what you want out of it. Are you there to learn more about the disease? Are you there to bond with others experiencing the disease? Do you want to do advocacy work? Do you feel comfortable sharing your story?

If there are several groups in your area you might want to explore each to see what is the best fit for you.

A crucial part of support groups

To me, the crucial part of any support group is the facilitator. Can the facilitator keep everyone on track? Can they be sure that the group is not being dominated by one person? Do they ask the right questions? Do they have the qualifications or knowledge needed to address the group?

Support groups are usually designed to make you feel comfortable on every level - whether you are there to share or just listen.

What are support groups?

Support groups can provide a safe place for you to discuss your feelings and ask questions. They are confidential in nature and should provide comfort to you. Beyond being a place for you to share your feelings, you should be able to share experiences and emotions. You won't feel alone in dealing with this disease.

It might not be easy at first but if you like the others in the group keep at it and you might find some assurances you are doing the right thing. If you find that a support group is not for you, you may want to check out some online resources that can be engaging and educational without the support group setting.

Finding the right fit

If you are a caregiver looking for a support group for your loved one be sure it is the right fit.

Are the people in the group in the same phase as your loved one? Will the support group be for social interaction only? Will they offer activities? Is your loved one fearful of strangers? How will they react in a new or uncommon environment? Is the physical space calming? How long is the session? What time of day is it? Who will be the facilitator? How long will the session last?

If your loved one has a bad experience the first time they go, they may not want to go back.

Helping others by helping myself

I have never really found "my support group." But, I am quite often asked to go to speak to support groups so they can hear from someone else that has Alzheimer's.

This almost becomes my support group – it makes me feel like I am able to help others by helping myself.