WHEATLAND — The isolation that becomes an almost unavoidable circumstance in the life of a caregiver can result in feelings of oppression, frustration, and loneliness. Caring for a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia is a full-time job. The effects on a person with this disease is devastating and progressive. 

While there is a difference between Alzheimer’s and a dementia diagnosis, the symptoms or behavior can be similar. Dementia is a term assigned to a group of symptoms that affect memory, behavior, and cognitive acuity. Thinking and the ability to perform everyday activities is greatly impacted and can result in emotional problems as well. It is one of the leading causes of dependence and disability among older adults. The requirements of full-time care are often a result of the increasing inability of the effected person to perform even the simplest self-care tasks or routines, such as eating or hygiene. Alzheimer’s is one of the leading culprits of dementia, but there are other factors such as stroke, vascular disease, or Parkinson’s disease.

An early warning sign of Alzheimer’s can be (but is not limited to) the inability to remember recent events. Problems with language, mood swings, and self-neglect become more apparent as the disease progresses.

Stacey Reichardt has had first-hand experience with the heartbreaking process of dementia. “Having a loved one who struggles with their mental and emotional health can be lonely and stressful,” Reichardt said. “It is essential for the caregiver to also care for themselves; it is necessary in order to continue to provide support to those you love.”

Reichardt has begun a process to create a six-week support group for those noble caregivers that allows a safe space in shared company to help dispel those complex feelings of isolation. 

“The primary goal for this group is that everyone gets hugged mentally and physically,” Reichardt added. “When I realized my loved one was in trouble, I just didn’t know how to relate to her. The behavior can get very hurtful and out-of-character. Not only that, but my poor friend was in such denial about her own behavior.” 

The frustration of not understanding the disease, and not knowing how to interact or support the behavior was the impetus for Reichardt to begin a group that not only supports one another, but a group that could assist in seeking out resources and education. 

“I’d really like the first few meetings be brainstorming sessions and talk about the possibilities about what we need (as caregivers) and what can be done,” Reichardt said. “I really want to create room for nourishing support but not for high drama. A place to vent with mutual understanding but also to learn. There is no set agenda, just a vision for support, information, and whatever benefits the group.”

The first meeting for the Alzheimer’s & Dementia Caregiver Support Group will be Wednesday, January 10, at noon, at the United Church of Christ in Wheatland. The group is open to anyone with an interest, according to Reichardt. “Let’s help each other deal with this heart-wrenching disease.”

For additional information Stacey Reichardt can be reached by calling 307-331-1951, or by email staceyr@vcn.com.