Via practica 4/2016

Support groups for relatives of Alzheimer’s patients

Support groups for relatives of patients with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia etiology of various types provide their members with a safe space for mutual discussions, for sharing experiences and also social and emotional support. The proper functioning of a support group is aided by a facilitator with adequate qualifications and experiences. The benefits of participating in a support group are above all finding and discussing coping strategies for everyday problems of a caregiver, sharing the little joys, having a chance to be heard-out, and receiving sympathy and encouragement. In Slovakia, there are currently five support groups focusing on close relatives of people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Keywords: Alzheimer´s disease, dementia, support group, family members