Teri Sellers
PebbleCreek Alzheimer’s Support Group is available for residents who have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia. We meet twice a month, a breakfast social and a support group meeting. Our goal is to provide support and information to families that are caring for a loved one with dementia.
I am starting a second Alzheimer’s Group in September at my church because there are so many people in the southwest valley who have a loved one suffering with dementia. We will meet starting on Sept. 11, and every second Monday of the month from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Desert Springs Community Church, located at 14440 W. Indian School Road, in Goodyear. This group will be open to anyone who has someone in their life with dementia, and will be sanctioned by the Alzheimer’s Association.
Support Group Benefits
Support groups provide a forum for caregivers to share feelings, needs, and concerns in a confidential, safe, supportive, non-threatening, and non-judgmental atmosphere.
They provide an opportunity to:
* Exchange information, challenges, and possible solutions.
* Share ways to adapt to stress.
* Express and work through feelings of fear, frustration, worry, guilt, anger, and other emotions.
* Provide social contact for those who feel isolated.
* Connect people with similar experiences so they can support each other outside of meetings.
* Familiarize participants with the Alzheimer’s Association and other community resources.
* Help participants learn to appropriately advocate on behalf of their needs.
* Receive current and accurate information on Alzheimer’s, recent advances in research, and public policy issues.
* Emphasize the importance of maintaining physical and mental health through respite and involvement in family life, work, community, and social and recreational activities.
Over the years, I have seen lots of tears and laughter as the group shares their experience and challenges. This is one of the hardest personal journeys you can take. I recommend that you do not take this journey alone.
Our Saturday breakfast meetings will start up again on Sept. 2. An RSVP is mandatory.
The support group meeting on the third Saturday does not require a RSVP.
If you are not a member of our group, it is easy to join. You are not alone. I want to share helpful resources and information with you, and add you to our email list. Our support group is an excellent way to learn more about the journey that is dementia, and a wonderful way to meet others who are going through the same journey as you. Your information is always safe and confidential. The benefits are priceless.
Please contact me, Teri Sellers, at 602-793-0299 or [email protected].