Senior Living Blog

Alto Overland Park Provides Onsite Monthly Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group

Written by Allegro Staff Writer | Jul 30, 2024 7:24:25 PM

Alto Overland Park proudly offers luxury Assisted Living and Memory Care, where residents can create thriving relationships within the community. But another great service they provide is an onsite caregiver support group that meets the first Wednesday of each month, providing a peaceful, calming space where caregivers can gather.

In the whirlwind of managing medications, appointments, and the emotional needs of loved ones, caregivers can sometimes feel lost in the shuffle. This is where the power of a support group shines through - a beacon of hope and understanding in the complex journey of caregiving.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other cognitive abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's disease accounts for 60-80% of dementia cases.

Alzheimer's is not a normal part of aging. The greatest known risk factor is increasing age, and the majority of people with Alzheimer's are 65 and older. Alzheimer’s disease is considered to be younger-onset Alzheimer’s if it affects a person under 65. Younger-onset can also be referred to as early-onset Alzheimer’s. People with younger-onset Alzheimer’s can be in the early, middle or late stage of the disease.

Source: https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers 

What are the benefits of a support group?

Caregiving, often a labor of love, can be as challenging as it is rewarding. Playing the role of a caregiver for a loved one can become physically, emotionally and mentally taxing.

One of the core benefits of joining a caregiver support group is finding a safe space to express feelings without judgment. Caregiving can be isolating, but in these groups, you’re surrounded by people who truly understand your challenges and emotions. This shared understanding fosters a deep sense of belonging and relief.

Other long-term, key benefits:

  • Develop a support system
  • Exchange practical information to challenges and possible solutions
  • Talk through issues and ways of coping
  • Share feelings, needs and concerns
  • Learn about community resources
  • Reduced stress, anxiety and depression
  • Improvement of overall mental and physical health
  • Overall personal growth
  • Stronger coping skills, improved communication and deeper understanding of their own needs and boundaries
  • Caregivers often find that they are able to provide better care when armed with support, information, and resources

Alto Overland Park Group Information

The onsite support group at Alto Overland Park is led by Jerelyn Cole, an Alzheimer's Association-trained associate and facilitator.

  • Every first Wednesday of the month
  • 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
  • 10300 Indian Creek Parkway | Overland Park, KS 66210

To learn more or RSVP, please contact us or call 913-232-8054.