Washington to start Alzheimer’s support group

Washington is about to begin a new Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group.

The Alzheimer’s Association offers free support groups led by local, trained facilitators for caregivers, families and individuals living with Alzheimer’s.

Washington’s new group will first meet from 4-5 p.m. on Oct. 2 at the United Presbyterian Home’s Campbell Room. It will be led by Andrew Zuehlke and Paula Brinning, who are trained support group facilitators.

Alzheimer’s Association support groups are free of charge and open to the general public, and they are generally focused on dementia caregivers. They are all facilitated by trained individuals who oftentimes have experience as a caregiver to someone living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Most groups are for all types of dementia caregivers, but there are also specific groups for different types of dementia.

Support groups offer:

• A safe place to meet and develop a mutual support system

• An opportunity to exchange practical information on caregiving problems and possible solutions

• A chance to talk through challenges and ways of coping

• Time to share feelings, needs and concerns

• Information about resources available in your community

Contact Andrew Zuehlke or Paula Brinning at the United Presbyterian Home 319-653-5473, or call the free, 24/7 Alzheimer’s Association Helpline at 800-272-3900 to learn more or register for this or any local support group.

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.