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Caring
for a person who has Alzheimer's disease or any form
of dementia can be a difficult and stressful experience.
Many carers have found support groups to be a useful
way of meeting with others in similar situations.
It can be very reassuring to know that you are not
alone.
What
is a Support Group?
A support Group is an informal gathering of people
who share similar experiences, situations or concerns.
By meeting together, Support Group members can offer
each other emotional and practical support. Support
Groups usually meet once a month at a regular time.
These groups are coordinated by people employed in
health related fields or by people who have been carers
themselves. The coordinator will organise the date,
time and venue for the meeting in consultation with
members.
A
Support Group meeting may include:
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Information
about Alzheimer's disease and other dementia
related illnesses
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Group
discussions
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Sharing
experiences and practical tips and advice on
living with or caring for someone with dementia
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Relevant
information and educational sessions given by
guest speakers and/or videos
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Some
support groups have an occasional social outing
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Sharing
a cup of tea/coffee
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How can a Support Group help you?
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Giving
you a chance to share your feelings and hearing
the experience of others
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Helping
you to understand more about dementia
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Being
understood by others in similar circumstances
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Giving
you the chance to re-charge your batteries (however
brief)
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Discovering
other ways of managing the behaviour of the
person with dementia
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Increasing
your knowledge of other services and resources
that are available to you
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A Support Group doesn't:
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Have
joining fees or costs involved. Some groups
may ask for a small amount to go towards tea,
coffee and biscuits.
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Make
you sign any forms, join any committees or commit
your time.
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Tell
you when to come.
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You may attend as often and whenever you like - each
month or once a year if you wish. Anyone can attend
these meetings. You do not have to be caring in your
home to take advantage of a Support Group meeting.
To
find out about the Support Group nearest you, telephone
the Help Line 1800 639 331.
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