Support groups

Farmer Girl

I'm not a caregiver, though I provide emotional support and conversation almost daily for my mom with Alzheimer's and my dad who is currently her caregiver and dealing with his own health issues. Is there a support group for family who are not caregivers?

SDianeL

welcome. I would call the Alzheimer’s toll free number listed at the top of the main page. They may have a list of resources in your area. This forum is a great place for help even if you’re not the primary caregiver. Feel free to post any questions here. Read the book “The 36 Hour Day” which will explain the disease and help you and your Dad. Make sure your Dad has legal papers in order. Durable Powers of attorney., HIPPA forms, etc.

allit

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/73916/support-groups

Hi there, I attend a support group online through Duke Dementia Family Support program. Here’s a link to their support group page. There’s one there called Daughters Concerned for Aging Relatives. Also, just imo, you’re a caregiver too. Anyone who is actively involved in the life of someone who has dementia is a caregiver. https://dukefamilysupport.org/support-groups/

Farmer Girl

Thank you so much for this. <3

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/252030#Comment_252030

Farmer Girl

Thank you so much. <3

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/comment/251954#Comment_251954

harshedbuzz

@Farmer Girl

Hi and welcome. I am sorry for your reason to be here but pleased you found this place.

Are you able and do you visit them in person? Have you taken on household tasks to help dad? Maybe picking up groceries, dropping off meals, staying with mom so he can see his doctors? If so, you might be a caregiver. The role is an insidious one and you might not realize you've taken it on. At the very least, you're a support person and likely their Plan B. You'll want to be sure you are ready to step in if something prevents dad from continuing to be mom's primary caregiver.

You're certainly welcome here. There are IRL and virtual groups out there at which you would be welcome as well. I found my group through my local Alz Assn. My role with dad was much as you describe and I was welcomed. There were a couple of women whose moms lived elsewhere with a spouse or sibling doing the caregiving who participated as well.

HB