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A Support Group for People in the Early Stages of Dementia of the Alzheimer Type

Washington University School of Medicine

Francine Trtanj

St. Louis Chapter Alzheimer's Association

The purpose of this report is to describe the process and outcomes of a support group for people in the early stages of dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT) from the diagnosed individual's perspective. Additionally, it offers insights and suggestions into effective ways others may develop these groups. The use of group support enabled the exploration of the effects of the illness on the person and an opportunity to share support and coping mechanisms to deal with these effects. The findings describe the participants' subjective difficulties with mentation and language, their emotional responses to the illness, their questions about the illness, the effect of others' comments regarding their condition, and their perceptions of the support group. Infor mation is included about screening, session content, and problems unique to group work with people with DAT so that others may duplicate the program.

Journal of Applied Gerontology, Vol. 14, No. 3, 289-301 (1995)
DOI: 10.1177/073346489501400304


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