If you call the local Alzheimer's Association chapter, they can send you a list of support groups and contact people.

1-800-272-3900

Hi folks, I went to my first support group meeting. 4 spouses and a daughter. the 4 spouses in different stages, all with our husbands at home. 2 every early, one incontinent, with daily help at home, and me. Interesting, and very comforting, somehow, to actually see other caregivers. Made me realize how much I'd like to go on that cruise in feb. I feel like i 'll be able to find out about services etc, by attending, like one of the women gets at home care for her spouse by medicaid. I don't know how that can work, inasmuch as we live in a fairly affluent area, but she went to an elder care lawyer, and they got that benefit . she says something about spending down, and that for at home you only need to move stuff 3 months before hand. they only look back 3 months. Well, I'll have to learn more. I know many of you here, my dearest support group, go to in person support groups also. I'd love to hear about them.

I'm going to my first FTD support group at our med school this afternoon. Surely hope to meet some kindred souls. We'll see.

Chris, several of the spouses of those in the facility talk to each other. It is a loose form of support but you are right - it is nice to talk face to face with people in the same boat.

There really is a big difference between those that are sympathetic versus those that have lived through it and are sympathetic. The first understand more on an intellectual level that it is difficult but have no personal experience, the second have lived it and really understand.