Being a caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer's is an all-consuming role; and the worst part is when you feel, not only completely overwhelmed, but also very much alone. No one can empathize and relate to what you are experiencing as much as other caregivers who are (or have been) in a similar situation. An Alzheimer's support group gathers and unites caregivers to provide a sense of comradery, community wisdom, and team empowerment - because they understand, are on your team, and will help you problem solve.
I took care of my wife for the first 5-years following her diagnosis, with the help of her mother who lived with us, and by hiring some additional help to monitor Kristie while I was at work. I refer to this period as "Good Time", but I was not prepared for the rapid changes and decline which occurred when I retired and we moved across the country to live with our daughter's family.
I became a full-time caregiver for Kristie, but it was almost too much. Thank goodness my daughter found and made it possible for me to participate in an Alzheimer's support group. It was a godsend, because they understood completely what I was going through, and would brainstorm and share with me things that did and didn't work.
Any doubts I had about the benefits of participating in a support group vanished during my first meeting. I was overwhelmed with Kristie's just wandering away and getting lost. Someone suggested installing child locks on our door to prevent Kristie from escaping - which solved the problem and restored my sanity. Now, 10 years later, and year after my wife passed away, I continue to meet and rally with my support group to both receive and give: strength, understanding, perspective and wisdom.
One of the primary benefits of a support group is respect. I cannot describe:
- First, the respect I have for fellow caregivers in my support group as they doggedly demonstrate their ongoing commitment and kindness to their loved one and the other members of our support group; and
- Second, the respect and support I feel from the members of my support group. It's like being part of a united, supportive family.
No matter how well you may be holding up as a caregiver, you can be of great benefit to others, while at the same time enjoy and be benefited by participating in a support group.
Your comments or willingness to share experiences below about Support Groups would be appreciated.
Resource Links
Alzheimer's Association - Contact information for local chapter to find a support group.
Community Resource Finder - Lookup for local Alzheimer's support groups - change the zip code for your area. (Sponsored by AARP and Alzheimer's Association)
ALZConnected - Free online community for everyone affected by Alzheimer's or other dementia. (Sponsored by the Alzheimer's Association)
Alzheimer's Foundation of America - Telephone based, call in support groups.
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