I took a page from LFL's book and started this thread for two reasons. First, I want to encourage those of you with an interest to look into facilitating a support group. I've been doing it for a while (since before Steve died) and find it rewarding. I believe the Alz Assn has a rule that you must be away from caregiving for a year before you can start, but they do make exceptions. Also, it's a good activity for "after". Considering all our experience gained on the front lines, who is better equipped?
The other reason is, I'd like to get new ideas for topics for my group. I just printed the list of books from Emily's thread and am going to have that as the theme for Tuesday. I realized I haven't shown my group the little lending library area at the Association's office (where we meet) nor have I mentioned the books on sale there for some time. We have some new members and I'm sure they'd benefit.
I am a facilitator in my home town, at the regional Alzheimer's Association Office. Have been for 3 years. We meet once a month in the mornings and some of us go out to lunch together. One of my ladies just placed her husband this week. She is on this site and I am sure she will be updating you as soon as she gets her feet under. She had a double whammy because she also had to place her 90+ year old Mother also. Husband is 2 1/2 hours away from her home and she has been away from home for 12 weeks. Keep her in your thoughts and prayers. I am always interested in topics for my group also. I think since we have been caregivers ourselves, we can impart more solace to those still in the trenches.
Marilyn, actually I'm surprised that there have been so few responses to both of our discussions. For some reason I seem to remember there were many more nurses and support group facilitators than have responded. Perhaps they have moved on if they are no longer directly caring for their spouses?
For new members to your group I would think a discussion about available resources (including books, blogs, etc) would be helpful. Since you've been on this journey a long time I am sure you have discussed this with your group but I was so overwhelmed at the initial diagnosis such basic info was lifesaving for me. I know you cannot recommend doctors, elder law attorneys but sometimes the other members will have comments about the professionals they used and that is good info for new members rather than just having a list where they have to call everyone.