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Virtual, In-Person Options Open to All

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 6.6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. By 2050, this number is projected to rise to nearly 13 million.

Each person with the disease inevitably needs some type of help. Whether you provide daily caregiving, participate in decision making, or simply care about a person with Alzheimer’s disease – caring for someone with dementia demands a lot.

Get to know other people who truly understand.

Pender Caregiver Support Group
Pender Community Hospital has partnered with the Nebraska chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association to create the Pender Caregiver Support Group for local friends, families and caregivers of people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.

“PCH saw the need for support and education for our families who are helping their loved ones through their journey with dementia, memory loss and Alzheimer’s,” said PCH therapist Krista Roeber, PLMHP/PLMSW.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, according to the Mayo Clinic; the disease is a progressive neurologic disorder that causes the brain to atrophy, which results in the decline in thinking, behavioral and social skills that affect a person’s ability to function independently.

At this time, there is not a cure for Alzheimer’s disease, which is believed to have contributed to the deaths of more than 120,000 people in 2019, according to the association. Formed in 1980, the Alzheimer’s Association is considered the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research.

PCH’s support group, which is facilitated by trained staff, is designed to provide dementia caregivers, including friends or family, with a support system that allows for:

  • the exchange of practical information and possible solutions
  • learning about available resources
  • a discussion of issues, concerns, and coping methods
  • sharing feelings and needs from the caregiver’s perspective

“We hope that those who attend the group meetings are able to leave with some education and support through the disease process,” said Roeber. “For anyone who is thinking about joining us, please feel comfortable and know that we are all learning together.”

Support Group Dates and Times
Virtual Meetings
Second Wednesday of each month
4:30-5:30 p.m.

In-person Meetings
Second Friday of each month at Pender Community Hospital
9:00-10:30 a.m.

To register, contact Krista Roeber at (402) 385-1897 or krista.roeber@pchne.org.

If you need assistance in finding respite for your loved one while attending the support group, please reach out to Krista Roeber at (402) 385-1897 or krista.roeber@pchne.org.

Additional Resources

Visit alz.org/nebraska to learn more about caregiver programs and resources.

To further extend your network of support, visit the Alzheimer’s Association’s online community ALZConnected at alzconnected.org. It’s a free online community for everyone affected by Alzheimer’s or another dementia.