Group offers support for HIV-related dementia

Alzheimer's disease and other related disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, Lewy Body dementia, and HIV-related dementia, impact not only the individual with the diagnosis but their care partners as well. Of the estimated 4.5 million Americans with Alzheimer's disease, approximately 70 percent reside at home and receive assistance by a loved one. Providing care to an individual with dementia places increasingly stressful demands on care partners, often impacting their physical, psychological, social and financial well-being. Attending a support group to safely and confidentially discuss the challenges and successes of providing care to an individual with dementia can be quite helpful. In addition, support groups offer insights into new coping strategies and provide education in topics such as safety, communication and behaviors. In collaboration with Affirmations Lesbian and Gay Community Center, the Alzheimer's Association-Greater Michigan Chapter, offers Caring Partners – a support group designed specifically to meet the needs of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities. Caring Partners meets from 6:30-7:30 p.m. the fourth Wednesday of every month at Affirmations Lesbian and Gay Community Center at 195 W. Nine Mile in Ferndale. For more information, call Stefanie at the Alzheimer's Association, (248) 351-0280 x 233.