For the City Times

Submitted by Mystique Macomber
Facilitator, Alzheimer’s caregiver support group

WISCONSIN RAPIDS — The Alzheimer’s caregiver support group will offer an evening meeting time beginning in April.

The support group meets at 9:30 a.m. the second Thursday of the month at Hilltop Grand Village in Wisconsin Rapids. Beginning in April and continuing in even months (April, June, August, etc.), the group also will meet at 6:30 p.m. at Hilltop Grand Village.

The evening meeting is designed to allow caregivers who work or who can’t get away during the day a chance to attend. Some months, it will mirror the morning session topic. Other months, it will be a time for sharing among members.

The Alzheimer’s caregiver support group is for anyone who cares for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia. It is aimed at family caregivers or friends who provide support in some way to someone with Alzheimer’s or other dementia. Meetings also are open to anyone who wishes to learn more. Anything shared during the meeting is confidential, to allow caregivers to share concerns in a safe setting.

Upcoming meetings and topics include:

• April 12: Effective communication – Families facing Alzheimer’s explore effective communication strategies and learn how to decode messages through attitude, tone of voice, facial expressions and body language. Tasha Beestman of the Alzheimer’s Association will be the guest presenter at the 9:30 a.m. meeting.
• April 12: Time for sharing — Take a break from caregiving duties to meet and talk. Our meetings are open, but what we discuss is confidential. Ask questions, learn more or just listen and know you’re not alone in this challenging journey. 6:30 p.m. meeting
• May 10: Memory books — We know recent memory fades with dementia. However, photos and mementoes can keep memories alive longer. Learn how to put together memory books for you and your loved one to enjoy while you reminisce. Fran Anderson is the guest presenter at the 9:30 a.m. meeting.
• June 14: I want to go home — It’s common for people with Alzheimer’s to express a desire to “go home,” particularly if they live in an assisted living or with another family member. What does this desire to “go home” mean? We’ll talk about ideas that might make your loved one more comfortable at both the 9:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. meetings.

Meetings are held in the Founders Room at Hilltop Grand Village, 1400 24^th St. S. (Enter by Home Depot.) There is no cost and no obligation. Refreshments are served. The meetings are hosted through the Alzheimer’s Association. Go to alz.org for more information.

To learn more about the support group or to arrange for free respite for your loved one during the meeting, call Mystique at 715-423-7400.