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In person support for Alzheimers patient

Lowki
Lowki Member Posts: 1 Member
Hi everyone, we have had a very difficult time even through the Alzheimer’s Association finding a support group that meets in person or online. We have been told that they are full and there is a waitlist, but have been n a waitlist for 6 months which is a long time with this disease and it’s very discouraging because I think it would be very helpful - would love any ideas folks have about support groups for the actual patient that you are aware of thank you.

Comments

  • Karen711
    Karen711 Member Posts: 251
    100 Care Reactions 100 Likes 100 Comments Second Anniversary
    Member

    Can you show up at the “closed” one anyway and see if they won’t let you in. Often times people just don’t show up…

  • H1235
    H1235 Member Posts: 1,820
    500 Insightfuls Reactions 500 Likes 1000 Comments 250 Care Reactions
    Member

    Welcome. Sorry you need be here. I imagine it’s going to be very hard to find a support group for the person with dementia. People with dementia often have anosognosia. They are not able to recognize their symptoms or limitations. Because of this they have a hard time understanding the diagnosis. Some think the diagnosis is wrong others (like my mom) think they are in the very early stages since they believe they have almost no symptoms. They may not see their lose of independence being related to dementia but rather the fault of over bearing family. Maybe your experience with your lo is different (I hope so). Mom has seen a counselor since diagnosis. I don’t know if it’s good for her to be able to vent to someone about how awful I am or if it just gets her more upset talking about how unfairly she is being treated. I hope you can find something that works for your lo.

  • MaryMN
    MaryMN Member Posts: 54
    25 Care Reactions 25 Insightfuls Reactions 25 Likes 10 Comments
    Member

    Have you contacted the county you live in to see what resources they have available? At the least, they should have a Senior Information Line. Many counties also have senior centers that offer programming.

    If you have a local YMCA, they may also have options.

  • jgreen
    jgreen Member Posts: 333
    250 Likes 100 Care Reactions 100 Insightfuls Reactions 100 Comments
    Member

    Hi @Lowki

    There is a discussion group on this site called “I am Living with Dementia”. While you continue to look for in-person groups you and your LO might try that venue.

    I wish you the best under these circumstances.

Commonly Used Abbreviations


DH = Dear Husband
DW= Dear Wife, Darling Wife
LO = Loved One
ES = Early Stage
EO = Early Onset
FTD = Frontotemporal Dementia
VD = Vascular Dementia
MC = Memory Care
AL = Assisted Living
POA = Power of Attorney
Read more