Support Groups

The Aging Resource Center offers various ongoing support and discussion groups.

Caring for Another, Caring for Yourself: Nurture for Family Caregivers

Facilitator: Deadra B. Ashton, MDiv.

Every other Tuesday, September 10, 24; October 8, 22; November 5, 19; and December 3, 17 (eight sessions)
1:30 to 3 pm

Family caregiving can be lonely, arduous, and prolonged. We offer you a safe-haven to express your feelings, ask questions, ease your mind, share ideas, and receive encouragement from others who truly understand.

Note: Pre-registration is required. Please call 603-653-3461 to speak with Deadra B. Ashton before enrolling.

Support Group for Caregivers of People with Dementia

Facilitators: Kathleen Otto, LICSW and Bernie Seifert, LICSW

Wednesdays, September 11, 25; October 9, 23; November 6, 20; and December 4, 18
12:30 to 2 pm

Are you caring for a family member who has dementia? Whether your family member lives with you, near you, or in another part of the country, the stresses of coping with this disease can be enormous. Come listen to other caregivers talk about their challenges and how they manage them. Share your story with a friendly group of people who will understand what you are going through, who will not make judgments, and who will offer practical advice on how to handle the challenges of caring for someone with dementia.

Note: Pre-registration is NOT necessary.

Support Group for People with Early Stage Dementia

Facilitators: Deadra Ashton, Mdiv and Kathleen Otto, LICSW

Dates and times TBA

Have you or has someone you love been diagnosed with early stage Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, Lewy Body dementia, another progressive dementia or mild cognitive impairment? The Early Stage Support Group will give you the opportunity to connect with others who are experiencing similar symptoms and facing similar losses. Two groups will run concurrently - one group for people with early symptoms of dementia and one group for care partners, family members and loved ones.

Note: Pre-registration is required. Contact Kathleen Otto at 603-653-3484 for more information.

Support Group for Caregivers of People with Early Stage Dementia (concurrent group with Early Stage Support Group)

Facilitators: Renee Pepin, PhD and Bernie Seifert, LICSW

Dates and times TBA

Has somebody you love been diagnosed with early stage Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, Lewy Body dementia, another progressive dementia or Mild Cognitive Impairment? The Early Stage Support Group will give you the opportunity to connect with others who are experiencing similar losses, challenges, changes and decisions.

Proactive Parkinson’s Discussion Group

Facilitators: Suzanne Serat and John Tomeny

Wednesdays, September 25, October 23, November 20, and December 18
1 to 2:30 pm

A group of people with Parkinson's has formed a participant-directed, proactive group. We will meet to share experiences and information, evolving into focus based on the participants’ needs and interests. Living with Parkinson's, we all have something to contribute about how we cope and about what we've learned works and doesn't work for us. There's a lot of information out there. We can support each other, empower ourselves and enhance quality of life through learning and sharing information. People with Parkinson’s and family care partners and friends are welcome.

Note: Pre-registration is NOT necessary.

Upper Valley Stroke Support and Education Group

DHMC Neurology Department

Fridays, October 4 and December 6
10 to 11:30 am

This drop-in education program will be offered to provide information and networking opportunities for people who have survived a stroke and their families. This program will be offered in partnership with DHMC Neurology Department.

Note: Pre-registration is encouraged but drop ins are welcome. Please call Sarah L. Braginetz at 603-650-5104 to confirm meeting date, location and agenda, and to register.

When Someone You Love Has Died

Deadra B. Ashton, MDiv

Wednesdays, October 23 to December 11 (eight sessions)
3:00 to 4:30 pm

Losing someone you love can be soul-shattering. Join us for comfort, understanding, and support facing this daunting new reality. Our purpose is to strengthen each other in finding hopeful and sustaining steps forward. We realize that this group will sit with strong emotions and pain. We find that the group is the most beneficial and feels safer for all when people attend regularly.

Note: Pre-registration is required. Please call 603-653-3461 to speak with Deadra Ashton before enrolling.