New dementia caregiver support group comes to DI

As April’s Stress Awareness Month brings attention to the impact of chronic stress, Respite Care Charleston is expanding its caregiver support programs by adding a sixth group on Daniel Island. 

These groups offer support, resources and a compassionate social network for those caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

The need for caregiver support continues to grow. According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 80% of adults with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias receive care in their homes. More than 11 million U.S. adults provide unpaid care for someone living with dementia, often at significant personal cost.

Caregivers for individuals with Alzheimer’s and related dementias face higher risks of anxiety, depression and reduced quality of life compared to other caregivers. Additionally, nearly one in three dementia caregivers provides care for four or more years.

Beginning April 28, the new caregiver support group will meet from 10 a.m. to noon on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at Providence Church, 294 Seven Farms Drive. 

The support group is offered by RCC at no charge thanks to the generous support of the Daniel Island Community Fund. No registration is required.

RCC’s caregiver support groups are open to friends or family members involved in the care of a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. The groups are facilitated by Certified Dementia Practitioners and offer a safe, confidential space where participants can share experiences, receive information on resources, and learn from others facing similar challenges.

“Caring for a loved one with dementia is often a long and emotionally demanding journey,” said Sara Perry, executive director of RCC, in a statement. “This program expansion is part of our commitment to caregivers in our community to ensure they have access to practical guidance, trouble shooting, education about the progression of the disease, and resources to preserve their own wellbeing and mental health. One of the most important things the groups provide caregivers is the reassurance that they are not alone.”

Caregivers can also receive one-on-one consultations with an RCC staff member by calling

843-647-7405 or emailing info@RespiteCareCharleston.org. Learn more about all of RCC’s services and locations by visiting RespiteCareCharleston.org.