Caring for a loved one with dementia can be both an act of deep love and one of life’s greatest challenges. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, nearly 12 million Americans provide unpaid care for people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, giving more than 19 billion hours of care in 2024. Most caregivers are family members, friends, or neighbors stepping up in extraordinary ways. That’s why the Aurora Public Library District (APLD) is proud to host a Dementia Carepartner Support Group Thursday, Sept. 18, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the West Branch Meeting Room, 233 S. Constitution Drive, Aurora. This program is designed to give caregivers a place to connect, share, and learn.
Caregiving can sometimes feel like an isolating and unpredictable journey. In fact, one past group member once compared caregiving to playing the game Chutes and Ladders. While the journey has its ups and downs, no one has to face it alone.
“This support group is a judgment-free space where caregivers quickly realize that they have peers in similar situations,” said group facilitator and owner of Dragonfly Senior Navigation Services, LaVon Lenaway, MA. “Everyone is doing the best they can with what they know about the disease.” With more than 7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s today—a number projected to nearly double by 2050—the need for community, understanding, and daily support has never been greater.
The group is designed to balance this emotional connection with practical guidance. “About 50% of our time together will be spent discussing emotions and feelings about the caregiving experience,” said LaVon. “The other half is focused on practical education, insight, and everyday help to make the work feel a little lighter and easier.” Attendees can expect discussions on understanding dementia, managing day-to-day challenges, planning for future care, and ways to find joy in difficult situations.
In addition to the support group, APLD offers our own resources for continuing education. Books on dementia and caregiving, research articles through the Medline database, and staff who can connect participants with local organizations that may be helpful.
The Dementia Carepartner Support Group is for anyone who cares for or about someone with memory impairment—whether you’re a spouse, partner, adult child, friend, or neighbor. All are welcome. Come to find support, enjoy meaningful conversation, and leave with a little more strength for the road ahead. For more information, visit www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/event/13924010 or contact the library at 630-264-4117.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.