Caregiver group sessions, although not for everyone, should be explored as an option to build support and reduce burnout
IT is true that you will be joining a group of strangers to discuss your personal journey with caring for someone with Alzheimer’s. The fact is that the participants in the group are similar to you, however group sessions may not be for everyone. Some people like to vent, seek suggestions and promote a caring life balance in a 1:1 setting. Although the purpose and functions of the group sessions need to be clearly understood. The group acts as a support network and communication forum comprised of people who have something in common. It is amazing how you find that you are not alone in a specific feeling or in a quest to determine a solution. The group participants come together with different methods, thoughts and questions. IT can be extremely rejuvenating to socialize with people that experience what you experience and hear how they work through it. It may be surprising to know that your personal solutions are helpful to someone else. Group settings can put into perspective your challenges.
A positive aspect for some people is that they don’t have to talk, but rather find benefit in listening and taking in the discussions of others. Albeit, if you’re not a talker, you might find it in yourself that you somewhat are.
Group sessions are non-judgmental and promote healthy conversation that can be educational, and uplifting. You can speak without ridicule or worrying about offending others. The purpose of the session is to provide a safe environment that allows you to be you. Judgement is never acceptable in this setting.
it is not all sad stories, if we don’t have occasional laugh out loud moments then I’m not doing my job as a facilitator. There is humor to be found in even the most serious of topics.
The great thing about sessions are that they are free and last about 1.5 to 2 hours only. Try it once, if you receive any benefit, make it a usual event throughout your Alzheimer’s caring journey.
