Online Support Groups
Hi there, are you actively providing care for someone living with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia?
Are you looking for support?
If so, you’ve come to the right place.
Here are the answers to our most frequently asked questions. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Email us at care@wearehfc.org.
Q: What is an HFC Support Group?
A: HFC’s groups are designed specifically for Alzheimer’s and dementia family caregivers to provide emotional and moral support. Facilitated by credentialed social workers and counselors, groups encourage a sense of community, empathy, and understanding.
Q: Do I need a support group?
A: Are you a robot? A statue? If not, you could probably benefit from a support group. Join to share your personal experiences and feelings with others who “get it” and to learn coping strategies and caregiving skills.
Q: What should I expect from HFC Support Groups?
A: HFC’s Online Support Groups are free and virtual (phone or video via Zoom) with committed members and facilitators. Depending on your choice, you may meet weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly for 60 minutes. Various day and evening meeting times are available.
Q: What types of support groups are offered at HFC?
A:
- Ongoing Support: open forum, weekly and monthly meetings with no end date (various days and times available 7 days/week). To the best of our ability, we match folks to groups based on your preference for days/times and community such as adult children or spouses/partners.
- Specialized Support: we offer groups specifically designed for Spanish-speaking caregivers, BIPOC caregivers, male caregivers, and LGBTQIA+ caregivers, as well as bereavement support groups.
Q: Who attends HFC support groups?
A: HFC Support Group members represent a range of ages, backgrounds, experiences, and caregiving situations. People who are the primary caregiver for their loved one, caring for them at home or in a facility; long-distance caregivers; caregivers of caregivers; people at the beginning of their caregiving journey and people who have been providing care for some time. In short, all are welcome.
Q: How do I get started?
A: The first step is to fill out our brief interest form here or en español.
After submission, you will receive a confirmation email from HFC with your next steps. Typically, caregivers are matched within 7-10 days. If there is not a match for a group at that time, HFC will provide you with additional resources and notify you once a group is available.