Supporting Peace of Mind at Home By Wendy Bombard BSN RN

Alzheimer’s disease is the fifth leading cause of death in Vermont and one out of three seniors’ struggles with this disease (Alzheimer’s Association). Families are burdened with caring for their loved ones suffering with memory impairment, and many of these families are also raising young families of their own while also trying to hold down jobs. These circumstances present significant challenges and stress for families, and so it is imperative that they are able to vent these frustrations, express concerns, and ask questions at a venue where others will understand and identify with their plight. As a dementia support group leader of several years, it is sobering to witness participants listening to each other describe their day to day, week to week struggles. However, despite the sadness and grieving that can occur during TLC HomeCare & Nursing’s support group meetings, it offers them freedom to share their struggles without fear or disinterest, and many times the problem solving between participants is enlightening and helpful.

One of the participants said this: “The support group at TLC HomeCare led by Wendy has been an extremely positive experience for me. Dealing with Alzheimer's disease is a long heartbreaking process. To share experiences with others is comforting and educational. The group allows us a forum to share our stories, offer advice, and support and learn from one another. Wendy is an excellent facilitator who makes sure everyone has the opportunity to share and receive feedback. I am so thankful to be part of a group that is experiencing the same journey. Being responsible for someone with Alzheimer's at times makes me feel lonely and overwhelmed. I always leave the group feeling grateful for the opportunity to come together.”

TLC HomeCare & Nursing hosts a wonderful opportunity once a month for family members who are struggling with dementia, to share their feelings with others dealing with similar concerns. They are able to come and “break bread” (pizza) with others between the hours of 6:30 and 8:00 pm who might have the same care issues that they do. They also may sit back and listen to everyone else share their own tribulations and support each other.

Another participant stated: “I cannot express enough of the knowledge or encouragement that I have received just being in my Alzheimer’s support group. Wendy, the creator of the group, has taught us a great deal. We have cried, laughed, smiled and shared information, whether it was the education, or experiences we each had. I always look forward to each and every meeting. When I first joined the group, my emotional state was I was ALONE no one knew what I felt; I was scared! I was worried I was going to do more harm than good. I was angry. Why my Aunt, why me? Throughout the years and time with my group I have gathered countless ideas, some worked; and some did not. As a group we will work together to brainstorm a problem or share an experience and you will find that some will work for you, and some will not. But, don’t give up because we as a group will just brainstorm some more. The group is there to encourage, supporting, and sharing our own experiences.”

The caregivers who come to this support group are either in-home caregivers caring for their loved one, or caregivers who have placed their loved one in a nursing home or facility. Well qualified group leaders are selected for their compassion, and experience in in-home care needs and family dynamics. One of the many topics that is discussed at group is that of stress reduction and caring for the caregiver. If the TLC support group did not exist, some individuals would not be able to function as well in caring for their loved one. The support group gives them the much needed respite they need to carry on in their responsibilities.

Another participant stated “Being in the caregiver's support group has been supportive and more. I have felt the anguish of their tears, the healing of their laughter, and the compassion in their efforts. There is support in their counsel and an uplifting spirit that is much more.”

TLC HomeCare Services and TLC Nursing Associates are already known throughout the different communities as a home care agency that provides excellent care in the home, and it also staffs facilities throughout Vermont and New Hampshire. Among many other things, it is known for treating their clients as family. It prides itself in striving for excellence with its carefully selected care providers. It also understands that the healthcare industry is changing as the acuity in the elderly is creating older ages and sicker individuals who need assistance; Thus it remains flexible to accommodate changes that are required to best meet the needs of the community.