http://www.alzheimers-illinois.org/enewsletter/december2012/support_group.asp
Ask Michael Danesha what makes a good Alzheimer’s support group facilitator and he’ll list three things.
“A desire to help, knowledge of dementia and the time to devote to training,” said the Wilmette resident who has served as a facilitator for an Alzheimer’s Association® support group for seven years.
Alzheimer’s Association support groups are regularly scheduled in-person or virtual gatherings of people with Alzheimer’s disease or related disorders, their family, friends or caregivers. In the group Danesha leads, caregivers meet monthly at the Wilmette Public Library to learn about resources for those affected by Alzheimer’s, share issues relating to dementia and caregiving and simply spend time with others who know what they’re going through.
“I’m an advocate in caring for yourself,” said Danesha, who has acted a caregiver for an aunt and an uncle with Alzheimer’s disease and has found himself drawn to working with older adults, even attaining a Master’s degree in family caregiving. “If you’re not healthy or happy, you’re not providing the best care.”
The Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Illinois Chapter is currently seeking people, who, like Danesha, want to provide support for those caring for a loved one. Prerequisites include at least three years’ experience in dementia care — personal or professional, solid knowledge of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, the ability to take an online course and commit at least a year of service to the group, understanding of and willingness to adhere to the Association’s policy concerning support groups and a willingness to undergo a criminal background check.
“Alzheimer’s Association support group facilitators are valued volunteers who bring a wealth of experience and knowledge,” said Stephanie Herro, Manager of Support Services for the Greater Illinois Chapter. “Volunteers can be individuals who work professionally in dementia care, but many of our facilitators are or have been family caregivers themselves. We look for individuals who have experience with dementia as a family member or health care professional and a desire to provide a safe and supportive environment for current caregivers in their community.”
The Wilmette group usually sees about 12 attendees per month, with two-thirds returning regularly.
In addition to leading support groups, Danesha is a facilitator and instructor for the course Powerful Tools for Caregivers, an additional resource for anyone who is fulfilling one of the most taxing roles there is in life, he said.
http://www.alzheimers-illinois.org/enewsletter/december2012/support_group.asp
http://www.optimumseniorcare.com/services/alzheimerscare.php