Get the emotional support you need If you have Alzheimer's Connect with others online Support group meetings in your community

Get the emotional support you need

Support groups are gatherings of caregivers and family members that meet on a monthly basis. Groups provide a consistent and caring place for members to discuss challenges of caregiving, share their feelings, give and receive mutual support, as well as exchange information and educate themselves about issues related to Alzheimer’s disease. Staff or trained volunteers facilitate the discussion.

The chapter offers over 30 support groups each month throughout our area. All of our groups offer the opportunity to:
• Connect with other families and caregivers who are dealing with the disease and reduce feelings of isolation.
• Develop a better understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and the disease process.
• Share and learn practical suggestions for caring for a person with Alzheimer’s disease and coping as a caregiver or family member.
• Express feelings, such as venting frustrations, anger, and disappointments, and share successes in a supportive setting.
• Vent frustrations, anger, and disappointments and share successes in a non-judgmental environment.
• Get encouragement and moral support.
• Learn about community resources and Association programs.

In addition, we are able to provide new attendees with a free copy of the of the well-known Alzheimer’s resource book, The 36-Hour Day, by Nancy L. Mace and Peter V. Rabins at many of our groups. For a list of these groups, please call the chapter.

Note: Support group schedules occasionally change frequently. Also, sometimes a group may invite a speaker to discuss issues related to Alzheimer’s disease, such as legal issues or an overview of the disease. Please call the chapter to verify details before attending your first meeting.

To read more about how you might benefit from a support group, click here.
No one needs to go through Alzheimer’s disease alone!

Support group brochure.

If you prefer, call our 24-hour Helpline — 1.800.272.3900.

If you have Alzheimer's

Families in Transition is a 10-month program designed for persons diagnosed with early-stage memory loss and their caregivers.

Families in Transition enables individuals with mild memory problems to meet with other individuals experiencing similar circumstances. Participants are given opportunities to share their feelings and experiences, peer-to-peer. Caregivers are also offered the opportunity to meet and share. 

The program offer education, support and strategies for coping, with new topics introduced each month.  A goal of the program is to help participants learn how to plan for the future while enjoying the present.

Meetings are generally held once a month in Akron, North Canton, and Girard.

The topic of memory loss and references to Alzheimer’s disease and dementia will naturally be a part of this group experience. Therefore, in order to fully participate, the chapter is seeking individuals with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’ disease or related disorder who acknowledge their illness and memory difficulties. Participants must also be both willing and able to share their feelings and experiences. A screening process is required prior to group participation.

Please call the chapter at 1-800-272-3900 for further details

Connect with others online

The Alzheimer’s Association message boards and chat rooms provide a virtual online community for persons with Alzheimer's, caregivers and care providers. Our message boards have thousands of registered members from around the United States and thousands more who refer to the stories and information that is available 24 hours a day.

Join the Alzheimer’s Association online community.