Caregiving is one of the greatest challenges and opportunities most of us experience in a lifetime. Belonging to a support group can be a lifeline on this journey. Listening to others who are experiencing similar experiences, and sharing your feelings in a supportive, caring and confidential setting is healing and often reassuring. Members of support groups often become good friends and provide a support network.
The following FREE support groups are offered:
SARASOTA: Senior Friendship Center Caregiver Resource Center, 1820 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota, FL
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NEW BEGINNINGS SUPPORT GROUP Thursdays, 1-2 p.m. for those who are no longer caregiving and would like to meet with others who are dealing with this life transition. Prior to joining the group, individuals must contact the Care Resource Center at 556.3268, Facilitated by Sylvia Kolker, MA, LCSW.
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CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP Thursdays, 10-11:30 a.m. For caregivers of loved ones with Alzheimer’s or dementia-related diseases. Facilitated by Paula Faulk and Jane Johnson.
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JOURNALING GROUP Fridays, 1-2:30 p.m. Use this powerful tool to explore and express feelings, and to heal. Led by Gail Hirsch Ed.D. Please call Paula Falk at 941.556.3270 to register in advance.
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MONTHLY PARKINSON'S CARE PARTNER SUPPORT GROUP Fourth Monday of the month,1:30-3 p.m. Care partners meet separately. Paula Falk, Facilitator.
VENICE: Senior Friendship Center Caregiver Resource Center, 2350 Scenic Drive, Venice. FL
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CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP Tuesdays, 2 -3 p.m. Venice Caregiver Resource Center Share, learn and gain support from the experiences of other caregivers. The Living Room Adult Daycare Lanai, with Alzheimer’s Association. Call facilitator Phyllis Balliett at 584-0050 for details.
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BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP First and third Thursday of month, 2-3 p.m. Prior to joining group, individuals must contact Sylvia Kolker at 941.361.7193.
ENGLEWOOD: Elsie Quirk Library, 100 W. Dearborn St., Englewood, FL
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ALZHEIMER'S ASSOCIATION SUPPORT GROUP Meets Monthly 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.. Facilitated by Phyllis Balliett, Call 941.584.0050 for information and schedule.
NORTH PORT: North Port Library, 13800 Tamiami Trail, North Port, FL
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CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP Meets monthly 10 - 11 a.m. Share learn and gain support from other caregivers and their experiences dealing with dementia issues. Facilitated by Pam Polowski, Infinity Homecare. For information and schedule, call 941.584.0050.
DESOTO COUNTY: Arcadia Way Building, 23 North Polk Ave., Arcadia, FL
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CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP Third Monday of month, 2 - 4 p.m. Call 863.494.5965 for information.
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GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN Second Friday of month, 9 - noon. Call 863.494.5965 for information.