Sedona AZ (September 8, 2017) – The Mental Health Coalition Verde Valley announces the start of an 8-week education and support group for individuals experiencing early stage Alzheimer’s or other related cognitive disorders. The group will Wednesdays 10:30-11:30AM beginning September 20 and continuing through November 8at Christ Lutheran Church, 25 Chapel Rd., Sedona. There is no charge for the program.
The support group is not for caregivers for whom there are other support groups available in the Verde Valley.
The 8 week program will include videos, guest speakers, and presentations explaining the basics of dementia and Alzheimer’s as well as specifics related to disclosure, relationships, resources, financial planning, changes in emotions, behavior and communications, medications, research, maintaining independence as long as possible and planning for care. Participants will be encouraged to share their personal experiences as well.
Facilitators for the program include Judith Patton and Barbara Litrell who have been trained by the Alzheimer’s Association and have access to resources from the Association.
According to Judith Patton, “We have conducted 2 series of support groups already, one for 8 weeks and one for 6 weeks, and the participants said it was extremely helpful to share their feelings and their ideas about coping with this disease. Learning earlier rather than later can provide more viable options for individuals and their families.”
Barbara Litrell, President of the Mental Health Coalition Verde Valley, said, “Our goal now is to conduct 8 week sessions in Sedona, Cottonwood and Camp Verde over the next 12 months. This support group is the only one of its kind in the Verde Valley. Most others are for caregivers. There is so much to be gained by sharing experiences, ideas, and information.”
The support groups are approved by the Alzheimer’s Association which states that over 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s and as many at 16 million will have the disease in 2050. The stigma and isolation can be reduced through education of the community and confidence of the individuals to share their diagnosis and be involved in their care and support services.
For more information or to sign up for the 8-week session, contact Barbara Litrell 649-0135 or blitrell@aol.com.