Sedona AZ (March 31, 2018) – Are you or someone you know experiencing cognitive issues? The Mental Health Coalition Verde Valley will begin a 6 week education and support group for individuals experiencing early stage Alzheimer’s or other related cognitive disorders. The group will meet Tuesdays 10:30-11:30AM From April 10 through May 15 at Christ Lutheran Church, 25 Chapel Rd., Sedona. There is no charge for the program.
The 6 week program will include videos and presentations focused on dementia and Alzheimer’s as well as specifics related to resources and tools for coping and maintaining independence as long as possible and planning for care. An important part of each meeting includes participants sharing their personal experiences.
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 3 series of support groups already and 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 is to conduct 6 week sessions in our communities to allow people experiencing changes in their cognitive abilities to learn and talk about it. This reduces the stress and sharing ideas with others also experiencing these issues is encouraging and helpful.”
This support group is the only one of its kind in the Verde Valley. Most others are for caregivers.
The Alzheimer’s Association 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 6-week session, contact Barbara Litrell 649-0135 or blitrell@aol.com.