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Early Stage Support Groups

We offer support groups for people living in the early stages of Alzheimer's or a related dementia. Early Stage Support Groups provide a safe and supportive
environment of peers. The groups offer dementia-related education, emotional support, and connections with resources to help members live a meaningful life. Most groups include a group for a care partner that meets at the same time in a separate room.

Early-Stage Support Groups provide an opportunity for
members to:

  • Exchange practical information on early-stage problems and their possible solutions.
  • Share different ways of adapting and coping to the stresses of the disease.
  • Share feelings, needs and concerns in a confidential, safe, supportive, nonthreatening and non-judgmental atmosphere.
  • Process feelings associated with living with the early stages of the disease (e.g., fear, frustration, worry, guilt, anger, and other emotions) with others who have experienced similar feelings.
  • Receive assistance with developing realistic expectations of themselves and others.
  • Understand the impact of the disease on relationship dynamics.
  • Provide social contact and reduce feelings of isolation.
  • Establish empathic connections among families dealing with similar experiences so they can call on each other when they need support or connection.
  • Understand the importance of preserving quality of life through physical and cognitive activity, and by asking for and accepting help in all areas of their lives.
  • Familiarize themselves with resources of the Alzheimer’s Association and in the community.
  • Learn how to advocate on behalf of themselves and others with the disease.
  • Receive current and accurate information on aspects of Alzheimer’s, including recent advances in research and public policy issues.

Please contact one of the following support group facilitators to find out if an early stage support group is right for you:
Julie Robinson, LMSW  208.860.5127
Dee Childers, MA, MFCT  208.321.5567