Support groups for family caregivers

(FOX Providence) - There are many challenges and concerns of a caregiver's of persons with Alzheimer's Disease. The Alzheimer's Association offers support groups throughout the state to provide knowledge about the disease and caregiver skills.

Support groups are regularly scheduled, free gatherings for people providing care for someone with Alzheimer's Disease or a related disorder. Folks should join once they are open and receptive to the idea of the setting.

"I find after they come to two or three groups, they've found a new home. They have a new bank of friends. They have that support they need. And the guidance they need in helping making very difficult, difficult decisions. And also learning how to cope with this disease," said Marge Antilly, Program Director of the Alzheimer's Association Rhode Island chapter .

As a caregiver, there isn't a large amount of time to drive around the state to find a support group. That's why the Alzheimer's Association holds their meetings throughout Rhode Island in community-based settings.

"Most groups right now meet once a month for about an hour and a half. We do have two groups in RI that meet weekly. One in Portsmouth and one in East Greenwich. So, they're able to come as they need, they don't need to go every week."

If a caregiver needs to take their family member who is suffering from the disease with them so they can attend the support group, that's okay too.

"Some of the groups actually provide a room for the person with the disease to stay in, as the family member is meeting with the facilitator and the other family members," said Antilly.

It may take some time to find the right group. But, there's plenty of information available to find one that suits you. You can talk with local physicians, read newsletters, or search the internet.

"They're listed on our website. The Alzheimer's Association, Rhode Island chapter. www.alz.org/ri . And it's under Resources. We also list all of the educational programming we are doing for families."

Support Groups remind caregivers they are not alone, giving them a chance to say what they are feeling in a supportive environment.

"It's a wonderful resource. I was a caregiver myself for my dad for 12 years. And when I found a support group, it just made my job so much easier. I wasn't doing the journey alone. It was my sister and I, and we were hearing from other family members, we got some good ideas on what to do," said Antilly.