Our chaper offers a support group for persons in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia in the Fort Worth, Abilene and Waco areas. This support group is designed to provide an opportunity for persons with mild memory loss to meet with others who are experiencing similar difficulties.   The latest session of the Early Stage Support Group began in August 2009.  Look for a new session to begin in 2010.

The Early Stage Support group is a place for individuals with dementia to meet others in like sitautions.  In addition to traditional "support group" discussions, the facilitators arrange for a variety of activities, including music therapy, exercise, art, outings and question and answer sessions with local experts.  Caregivers are invited to attend  concurrent support group.

One participant who was asked what he liked best about the Early Stage Support Group summed up the benefits of this group.  He stated, "Everyone knowswhat it feels like when you come to the end of a sentence and can't remember what it was you wanted to say.  The group keeps me from feeling like running to the corner to hide."

All potential participants of the Early Stage Support Group go through a screening process with the local facilitators and eligibility is determined by the local facilitators. Individuals participating in the Early Stage Support Group should have the following list of characteristics.

• Participants have diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or related dementia documented by physician.
• Participants were told of the diagnosis by doctor or family.
• Participants at least occasionally acknowledge memory loss or confusion.  
• Ability to express himself/herself and understanding of others, even if there is some degree of difficulty with speech or word-finding
• Participants are able and willing to discuss feelings and experiences related to illness.
• Participants understand the purpose of support group, are interested and freely give consent to participate.
• Participants have a caregiver or someone willing to serve as a contact person for group facilitator.

For more information, please contact:

• Carolyn Berry or Howard Gruetzner in Waco at 254.753.7722

• Mindy Bannster or Libby Connally in Abilene at 325.672.2907

• Gail Phills in Fort Worth at 817.336.4949

• or you may call 800.272.3900 to be directed to your local office.

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