How to Build an Alzheimer's Support Network

Alzheimer's is a heartbreaking disease. A person slowly loses their memory and ability to recognize their loved ones. They become dependent on those around them. It's the type of disease that has a tremendous affect on family members and friends. Unbelievably, someone is diagnosed with Alzheimer's every 72 seconds.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Meeting place
• Literature

1. Talk it up. As you deal with the affect Alzheimer's is having on your family, you've undoubtedly met others who are in the same boat. If you feel comfortable with them, bring up the idea of a support network. See if they're open to meeting.

2. Set a day and time to meet. Once you have a few people interested, find a time that works for you all to get together.

3. Pick a place to meet. Maybe you want to keep it formal and meet in a community room. Or maybe you'd rather make it like a party and rotate between houses. If you want a public space, call local civic groups, libraries and churches to inquire about their meeting rooms.

4. Create a comfortable environment. No matter where you meet, it's important to make everyone feel welcomed. The group leader should greet each person at the door. Have them introduce themselves one by one, sharing some details about their lives.

5. Make it clear that you're there to support each other. By listening and caring, you'll begin to trust one another. Share stories about your struggles with Alzheimer's. Before you know, everyone will come together.

6. Join a chat room. Your Alzheimer's support network doesn't necessarily need to be in person. You can talk to others around the country via a chat room. Choose either a generic website or one specific to Alzheimer's.

7. Link your support group to others around the country. By registering your support group below, you can make it available to other people in your area.

Tips & Warnings

• Call the local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association and ask if they know anyone who wants to join a support group.

Resources

• Click here for news and research about Alzheimer's Disease.
• Search here for local Alzheimer's support groups.
• Another place to find Alzheimer's support.
• Click here to add your support group to the national listing.
• To join a chat room about Alzheimer's, click here.

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[karen6]

on 1/21/2008 I'm thinking about starting a support group. I've spoken with the support group coordinator at my local alzheimer's assocation chapter. Will share this information with her.