Alzheimer's support group meets Tuesday
The Alzheimer's Support Group has been meeting at Putnam County Hospital on the second Tuesday of the month for a numbers of years and welcomes new members.
This support group for family or friends of persons afflicted with Alzheimer's disease is sponsored by the Alzheimer's Association of Indiana. Participants share personal stories, frustration and successes encountered in the day-to-day life of coping with a loved one with this dehabilitating disease as well as information on medication, treatments and research.
The state Association provides a monthly "Fact Sheet" on a topic of interest to those who are providing care or support to someone with Alzheimer's. Topics might include travel suggestions, communication tips, bathing techniques or information when seeking long term care, among others. These often bring on discussion led by the hospital's social worker.
The Alzheimer's group provides a supportive, confidential, non-judgmental time of sharing for its members. Participants who have lost a loved one to this disease often continue to attend meetings to continue the relationships established between members and to support others through this life changing process.
In this season of gift giving, the Alzheimer's Support Group members suggest that one of the most meaningful and needed gifts is to provide respite time for the caregiver. A few hours away to allow the caregiver to shop, attend church, enjoy a movie or visit with others is a truly wonderful gift.
The Alzheimer's Support Group meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 4 p.m. on the third floor in classroom No. 1 of the Putnam County Hospital.
For more information, contact Barbara South, MSW, Social Services Director at 765-655-2608.