INTRODUCTION
Family and friends go through many emotions when a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease or dementia. Often, family and friends do not know where to turn to learn more about the problems and have no one to talk to. Support groups are places where people can come together to discuss feelings, learn more about the disease, and exchange thoughts and ideas. This course focuses on support group structure, membership, and resources.

After completing this activity, the participant should be able to:

• 1. describe the role of healthcare professionals in a support group for AD and dementia.
• 2. identify the membership of support groups for AD and dementia.
• 3. list strategies to overcome excuses that family members commonly express to avoid support group involvement.
• 4. describe the various activities/discussions at typical support group meetings.
• 5. explain advocacy activities in which advanced support groups become involved.
• 6. discuss outside resources that can aid in creating family support groups.