What is a support group?

A dementia support group is a regular meeting, in person or online, where family caregivers talk with others in the same situation, usually led by a trained facilitator. Groups are run by the Alzheimer's Association, hospitals, faith organizations and area agencies on aging, and most are free. Some are for caregivers, some for people with early dementia, and some for both.

Dementia support groups give caregivers a place to share experiences, ask questions and learn from people facing the same problems. Members swap practical tips on things like bathing, sleep, money and difficult behaviors, which are often as useful as the emotional support. The Alzheimer's Association offers peer led and professionally led groups, and many locations have groups for specific needs.

Most communities have one. The Alzheimer's Association lists in-person and virtual groups by location, and its free 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900 can help you find one. Hospitals, faith organizations and your local area agency on aging also run groups. If nothing meets nearby, the association hosts ALZConnected, a free online community for anyone affected by dementia.

Support groups help people living with early stage dementia by connecting them with others who understand what they are going through, which can ease isolation and fear. Members share ways of coping with memory changes and planning ahead. The Alzheimer's Association notes that many locations offer specialized groups for people with younger onset and early stage Alzheimer's.

For dementia caregivers, support groups matter because caregiving can be isolating and exhausting, and talking with people who understand eases both. Caregivers who attend report feeling less alone, and they pick up practical advice that is hard to find elsewhere. Support groups are one of the standard responses to caregiver burnout, alongside respite care and sharing the load with others.