Most support groups are designed for the caregiver, however participation in a support group can also be helpful to the early-stage dementia patient. Dementia support groups generally provide information about getting help for dementia, the disease, education and practical support. A support group is also an excellent forum for learning how other people have sought help for dementia and coped with the symptoms as well as the life changes dementia causes.

Support groups created to provide help for dementia are often held at local treatment centers, hospitals, universities, research centers or churches.

Starting Support Groups

If you live in a community that does not have an established dementia support program, talk with your doctor about forming one. Dementia is a common condition, so others in your community looking for help for dementia are bound to participate.

Follow these simple steps to get a support group started and begin receiving help for dementia:

Research a venue. Does a local hospital, clinic or doctor's office have a meeting room that they can provide free of charge on a monthly basis? If not, is someone's home available?

Recruit a leader. The best dementia support groups are lead by someone "in the know." Is your doctor willing to lead? If not, can he or she provide the name of others that might be interested.

Determine the best size of your group. A small group may seem intimate, but may not provide the range of experience that a larger group might. An overly large group, on the other hand, may get out of hand. A larger group can be split into two groups, if your venue will provide the space for two meetings.

Recruit members. Talk with your doctor about providing flyers to the caregivers of other dementia patients. See if you can post flyers in your local library.

Recruit speakers. Schedule an occasional talk or presentation by a dementia specialist who is also willing to answer questions. Advertise the presentation if you would like to recruit additional members.

Share the responsibility. Managing a support group can be a challenge. Talk with other members about sharing the duties. This will provide you with some relief, but will also allow others to take an active role in the group and prevent drop out.

Encourage member participation. Maintain a suggestion box and implement member suggestions.

One of the most important aspects of caring for a person with dementia is getting support. A diagnosis of dementia can create feelings of anger, fear, and anxiety. A person in the early stage of the illness should seek emotional support from family, friends, and perhaps a counselor experienced in working with people who need help for dementia. A support group for dementia may help the person accept the diagnosis and develop coping strategies.