Support Groups

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

Alzheimer's Disease Support and Education Group for Family Caregivers

Facilitators: Kathleen Otto, LICSW and Bernie Seifert, LICSW

Second and fourth Wednesdays, 12:30 to 2:00 pm

Are you coping with a family member who has Alzheimer's disease or another 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 Alzheimer's family members 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.

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

Facilitator: Deadra Ashton, MDiv

Every other Tuesday, February 5, 19, March 5, 19, April 2, 16, 30 and May 14 (eight sessions), 1:30 to 3:00 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: Please call (603) 653-3461 to speak with Deadra Ashton before enrolling.

When Someone You Love Has Died

Facilitator: Deadra Ashton, MDiv

Thursdays, February 7 to March 28 (eight sessions), 1:30 to 3:00 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 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.

Proactive Parkinson’s Discussion Group

Facilitators: Suzanne Serat, Karin Strassburger and John Tomeny

Fourth Wednesday of each month, 1:00 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, and will evolve 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

Arranged by DHMC Neurology Department

First Friday of every other month, February 1, April 5, June 7 and August 2, 10:00 to 11:30 am

Stroke survivors, family members and caregivers are welcome to share their experiences and gain support, education and encouragement from others. 

• Friday, February 1 - Renée A. Harvey from Caldwell Law
• Friday, April 5 - Cooking class with Lindsay Smith - Location: Co-Op Cullinary Learning Center
• Friday, June 7 - Fun gardening activity (clay pots, paint, little plants)
• Friday, August 2 -Canvas painting with the D-H Arts Program

Note: Pre-registration is NOT necessary. Please call Shawna Malynowski at (603) 653-1117 to confirm meeting dates and locations.

Early Stage Dementia Support Group for Loved Ones

Facilitators: Bernie Seifert, LICSW and Renee Pepin, PhD

Tuesdays, April 2 to May 7 (six sessions), 4:00 to 5:00 pm

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 Dementia Support Group will give you the opportunity to connect with others who are experiencing similar losses, challenges, changes and decisions. 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.

Early Stage Dementia Support Group for People with Dementia (concurrent group with Support Group for Loved Ones)

Facilitators: Deadra Ashton, Mdiv and Kathleen Otto, LICSW

Tuesdays, April 2 to May 7 (six sessions), 4:00 to 5:00 pm

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 Dementia 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 before attending for the first time.