GLENDALE : Alzheimer’s Support Group Offers Forum
Organizers of a new Glendale support group for loved ones of those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease are trying to ease the burden of the situation through sharing experiences.
The Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group, which meets the first and third Thursdays of each month, is a forum for friends and relatives of Alzheimer’s victims to talk about their troubles and feelings with others.
“The symptoms of the (victim’s) disease may cause the care-giving friend or relative to feel anxious, depressed and angry,” said Steve Smith, a spokesman for the Glendale Family Service Assn., a nonprofit agency sponsoring the new group.
The group is affiliated with the Los Angeles chapter of the Alzheimer’s Assn. and is led by a licensed clinical social worker.
The sessions are free, although voluntary donations are accepted, Smith said.
Victims of Alzheimer’s disease can suffer periodic or constant confusion, disorientation, memory loss, emotional outbursts, overly suspicious tendencies, hallucinations and poor judgment.
Nearly 2 million Americans over 65 are reportedly afflicted with the disease, the cause of which is unknown, Smith said.
The Alzheimer’s support group meets at the Glendale Family Service Assn. offices, 3436 N. Verdugo Road in Montrose. Information: (818) 248-2286.
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