Perry Lutheran Homes’ Alzheimer’s and dementia support group gives hope, help and healing

According to a March 2021 report by the Alzheimer’s Association, 6.2 million Americans age 65 and older are living with some form of dementia. Having a loved one with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or other dementia can be extremely difficult; especially those providing care at home.

“Caring for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s can be a lonely, isolating responsibility. At times, it can also be physically and emotionally draining. Even if a you’re not in the caregiver role, having a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia can be emotionally devastating,” shares Toni Larson, Director of Social Services for Perry Lutheran Homes. “And, as dementia progresses, it may feel as if you’ve lost your loved one altogether which can be traumatic causing sadness and grief. We just want everyone to know that you don’t have to go it alone. We understand, and we’re here for you.”

Perry Lutheran Homes Alzheimer’s and dementia support group is free of charge and open to all community members. We encourage all loved ones and caregivers to join. In order to beset support our loved ones, we must first understand the disease and prioritize taking care of ourselves.

The support group meets monthly on the third Thursday of every month, and you can choose to attend at either 10:00AM or 6:00PM. The group meets at Eden Acres Campus of Perry Lutheran Homes at 1300 28^th Street, Perry. Attendees can park on the east side and enter through the main entry doors. Meeting dates in 2021 will be July 15, August 19, September 16, October 21, November 18 and December 16.

Joining Perry Lutheran Homes’ Alzheimer’s and dementia support group gives individuals hope, help and healing. Attending the once monthly group provides practical advice and information on Alzheimer’s and dementia, improves your coping skills, gives you a sense of control over your situation, helps build confidence in caregiving, gives you ideas on how to engage with your loved one, provides social interaction and friendship with people who understand and are going through a similar situation, and offers a judgement-free place to share any and all emotions such as frustration, anger and grief, and facilitates the healing process.

Call or email Morgan or Tiffany with any questions: Morgan Newell - 515-465-5342 or mnewell@perrylutheranhomes.org.  Tiffany Hull - 515-465-5316 or thull@perrylutheranhomes.org.

Perry Lutheran Homes is your locally owned and managed, Christian Caring Community serving Perry and surrounding communities for 65 years. Perry Lutheran Homes offers innovative, personalized, Christ-centered living and care at three campuses in Perry, IA – Spring Valley Campus, King’s Garden’s Campus and Eden Acres Campus. Services include independent and assisted living, award-winning memory care, in-home care, respite care, skilled nursing care, rehabilitative therapy, intermediate and long-term care, end-of-life care and meals on wheels.