The Alzheimer’s Association Western New York Chapter oversees several monthly caregiver support group meetings across the Chautauqua County region which allows dementia caregivers to connect with others facing similar challenges and hear advice for overcoming them from care partners in the local area.

The programs generally run an hour in length and are free to attend via telephone or the Zoom video chat application. Additionally, there are no residency or minimum attendance requirements.

Caregivers looking for guidance, compassion and time away are welcome to join the discussion on the second Tuesday of every month at 9:30 a.m., including these dates in November and December: Nov. 10 and Dec. 8. While there are no fees, pre-registration is a requirement, by calling 1-800-272-3900 at any time. Online registration is also an option at alz.org/CRF. Those who are unfamiliar with Zoom can call the chapter office for a quick and easy practice session at 626-0600, ext. 313.

Chautauqua County residents also have access to caregiving resources and programs through the chapter’s partnership with the Chautauqua County Office for the Aging. To learn more about local caregiver resources, call the county office at 753-4582.

Additionally, as all programs planned by the chapter continue to be offered virtually, local caregivers can also attend meetings anywhere in the region to better accommodate their schedules. A complete list of WNY support group meetings as well as other free resources and programs are available in the chapter’s program guide, which can be downloaded at www.alz.org/wny/helping–you/program-catalog.