Support Groups
Updated: 2/28/2020
In-Person
Support groups that focus on caregivers
- Check for details on respite care and care partner attendance
Support groups that focus on the individual with the diagnosis
- Check for details on care partner attendance
Categories
- General memory loss support groups, including Memory Cafes
- LBD (Lewy Body Dementia)
- FTD (Frontotemporal Dementia)
- Parkinson’s
- Former dementia caregiver support group and bereavement group
- Vision Loss
Always check before attending any meeting to make certain the details have not changed
This listing does not endorse any meeting. This is only a representative group of caregiver support meetings. If you have a meeting to suggest for this list, please email details to RosevilleAlzDem@gmail.com.
General Memory Loss Support Groups
Handle Me with Care
What
Meet up with other Caregivers! Join us to share understanding, tips, and small victories with others who are in a similar situation. Get ideas from the experiences of others, learn strategies, and be in a room with people who can identify with the challenges and rewards of being a caregiver. Drop-ins welcome!
When
First and third Fridays of the Month from 10:00 A.M. to 11:30 A.M
Where
East Side Neighborhood Services
1700 2nd St NE
Minneapolis MN 55413
Cost
Free, donations welcome
RSVP
No
More
Please feel free to share future topics of interest with Lisa Kane, RDN LD, Family Caregiver Advocate and Health Coach/Nutritionist at (612) 787-4085. Or contact us at VitalLiving@esns.org.
SAP Caregiver Group
What
This SAP Caregiver Group offers support for people who have a loved one who is experiencing decline in mental and/or physical well-being.
The Caring Peer Group meets monthly to:
- Share joys and concerns
- Offer a safe space to be heard
- Ask for help with challenges
- Support each other
- Share ideas and resources
Sponsors
- SAP United Church of Christ
- SAP Lutheran Church
- Centennial United Methodist Church – SAP Branch
- St. Mathew’s Episcopal Church
- Peace Lutheran Church Lauderdale
- The Church of Saint Cecilia
- St. Anthony Park Area Seniors
- Catholic Church of Corpus Christi
When
First Thursday of every month 10:00-11:30 A.M.
Cost
Free
Where
St. Anthony Park United Church of Christ
2129 Commonwealth Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55108
Lyngblomsten: Memory Loss Caregivers Support Groups
What
Family and friends who have a loved one experiencing Alzheimer’s or related dementia are welcome to attend. All groups are open to the community. Come as often as you are able. Support group facilitators are trained through the Alzheimer’s Association.
When
Second Tuesday each month 10:00 A.M.
Where
Centennial United Methodist Church, Roseville
Contact
Jane Tripple at (651) 644-8441.
Memory Loss Caregivers Support Group - additional locations
What
Family and friends who are caring for someone experiencing Alzheimer’s Disease or a related dementia are welcome to attend. Groups meet at sites throughout Ramsey, Hennepin, Dakota, and Washington counties. Facilitators are trained through the Alzheimer’s Association. All groups are open to the community. Come as often as you are able.
Current Groups
Augustana Lutheran Church, West St. Paul
10 A.M. | 1st Tuesday each month
Contact: Eileen Wilkie at (612) 280-7526
Centennial United Methodist Church, Roseville
10 A.M. | 2nd Tuesday each month
Contact: Jane Tripple at (651) 644-8411
First Presbyterian Church, White Bear Lake
10 A.M. | 1st Thursday each month
Contact: Joan McGrath at (651) 429-5218
Salem Lutheran Church, West St. Paul
10 A.M. | 2nd Tuesday each month
Contact: Sue W. at (651) 490-9091
White Bear United Methodist Church, White Bear Lake
10 A.M. | 4th Thursday each month
Contact: Naomi Miller (651) 308-0759
Woodbury Baptist Church, Woodbury
10 A.M. | 4th Tuesday each month
Contacts: Mary Hafner and Jane Beckstrom at (651) 738-7700
For information
For general information about Memory Loss Caregivers Support Groups, contact Betsy Hoffman at (651) 414-5291 or bhoffman@lyngblomsten.org
Wilder Foundation: Memory Loss Discussion Group
What
The Memory Loss Discussion Group is a support group for people caring for someone with memory loss. Topics vary. Respite care for a person with dementia can be arranged in order for a caregiver to attend the meeting.
When
Second Thursday of the month from 10:00-11:30 A.M.
Where
Wilder Community Center for Aging
650 Marshall Avenue
Saint Paul, MN
Cost
Free, unless respite care is needed while you attend the meeting
Contact
Call Stephanie Sandbeck at (651) 280-22295 three days before the group meeting to discuss respite care options available during the meeting
Jewish Family Service Caregiver Support Group
What
Jewish Family Service is offering a monthly education and support group for individuals caring for a loved one, whether at home or in the community.
Sponsor
Jewish Family Service of St. Paul in affiliation with Sholom Home East and the Alzheimer's Association
When
Second and fourth Monday of every month from 3:00-4:00 P.M.
Where
Roitenberg Adult Day Center
Kuller Nosh Nook
740 Kay Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55102
Cost
FREE
RSVP and Information
Alice Tennis (651) 328-2063
African American culturally-specific Memory Loss Support Group
Lill’s Angels Support Group
What
- A caregiver support group in an African American culturally-specific environment
- Learn the facts about memory loss, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
- Connect with community resources
- Share experiences and concerns with other caregivers
- Identify solutions to difficult behaviors and other problems
- Gain insights and feedback from other caregivers
- Relevant monthly topics and guest speakers/experts
Sponsor
Volunteers of America-Minnesota and Wisconsin
There are two locations in the Twin Cities. Each location hosts a monthly meeting.
When
Second Thursday of each month 1:00–2:30 P.M.
Where
Centers For Families
3333 N. 4th Street
Minneapolis
When
Third Saturday of each month 10:00-11:30 A.M.
Where
Pilgrim Baptist Church
732 Central Ave. West
St. Paul
Cost
FREE
Contact and RSVP
Valorie Jones (952) 945-4178
African American Culturally-Specific Caregiver Support
What
A big thank you to caregivers for their labor of love. The caregiver breakfast is a great way for caregivers and seniors to connect, share good food and get relevant information about caregiving, general health and services. Seniors welcome.
Sponsors
Volunteers of America-Minnesota and Wisconsin, Minnesota Board on Aging, Metropolitan Area Agency on Aging and Accreditation for Community Living and Live Well at Home
When
Fourth Tuesday of the month 9:30-11:30 A.M.
Where
Centers For Families
3333 N. 4th Street
Minneapolis
Cost
FREE
Please RSVP by noon on the Friday before the breakfast to 952-945-4034
Adult Children Caregiver Support Group
What
Caregiver support group for anyone caring for a parent, grandparent or other parental figure with any condition.
When
Third Wednesday of each month from 6:00-7:30 P.M.
Where
Wilder Community Center for Aging
650 Marshall Avenue
Saint Paul, MN
Cost
Free
Contact
(651) 280-CARE (2273) or caregiving@wilder.org
RSVP requested
Roseville Area Senior Program Caregiver Support Group
What
This informal, ongoing support group is intended for caregivers taking care of seniors. Come as you are able. No preregistration is required. Facilitated by experienced volunteers.
When
Second Tuesday of the month from 12:30-2:00 P.M.
Where
Fairview Community Center, Room 116A
1910 County Road B West
Roseville, MN 55113
Cost
Free
Contact
(651) 604-3520
LGBTQ Caregiver Support Group
What
We are continuing to grow an LGBTQ-specific caregiver support group that is multicultural, cross-class and intergenerational. If you are seeking a space for emotional and social support, please join us on this journey and help us re-launch this group. On-site respite available with pre-registration.
When
Third Tuesday of the month, 1:00-2:30 P.M.
Where
Wilder’s Community Center for Aging
650 Marshall Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55104
Cost
No cost
Register
651-280-CARE (2273)
Questions
651-280-CARE (2273)
Southwest Metro Minneapolis Caregiver Support Group
What
For families facing a diagnosis of LBD and healthcare professionals working with persons with LBD who want information and support.
When
Second Monday of each month, 12:00 - 2:00 P.M.
Where
Gianna Homes
4605 Fairhills Road East
Minnetonka, MN 55345
(Please park in the lower parking lot behind the residence)
Contact
Anne Marie Hansen (952) 988-0953 for meeting specifics, to confirm time and place, and to be placed on the group's mailing list.
Memory Loss Caregiver Support and Education Group
What
- Are you caring for someone with memory loss?
- Would you like to connect with others in similar situations?
- Would you like to be able to check-in regularly with medical and caregiver support professionals?
- Are you looking for local resources for caregivers?
This group will explore issues such as:
- Understanding and dealing with the realities of memory loss
- Managing difficult behaviors
- Maintaining personal balance
- Planning for legal needs
- Coping with depression
- Developing support systems
- Accessing community resources
Facilitator
FamilyMeans Caregiving & Aging Social Workers and Dr. Charles Bransford from Stillwater Medical Group
When
First Wednesday of each month 1:00-3:00 P.M.
Where
FamilyMeans
1875 Northwestern Avenue S.
Stillwater, MN 55082
Cost
Free, pre-registration is required
For more information or to register, call FamilyMeans Caregiving and Aging Services at (651) 439-4840
Arthur’s Memory Café
What
A place where individuals with memory loss and their caregivers can get together in a safe, supportive, and engaging environment.
When
Second and fourth Wednesday of each month from 1:00-3:00 P.M.
Where
J. Arthur’s Coffee Shop
2441 Rice Street
Roseville, MN 55109
Cost
FREE (RSVP not required
Men's Caregiver Support Group
What
Support group for men caring for a family member or friend. Facilitated by Wilder volunteers. No respite available.
When
Fourth Thursday of the month, from 10:00- 11:00 A.M.
Where
Wilder’s Center for Aging
650 Marshall Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55104
Cost
Free
RSVP
None required
Carondelet Village Memory Cafe
Memory Cafes provide an opportunity for people with dementia, their families, and care partners to meet and socialize in a safe space, ask questions of professionals and learn from the experiences of others in an informal setting.
When
Third Wednesday of each month 1:00-2:30 P.M.
Where
Carondelet Village
Private Family Dining Room, 2nd floor
525 Fairview Ave. S.
St. Paul, MN 55116
RSVP
None Needed
Questions
Contact Meghan Constantini at (651) 695-5014 or mconstantini@preshomes.org
Dementia Support Group & Monthly Education
What
Support and Education for anyone with a friend or family member with Alzheimer's or other types of Dementia. This small support group discusses a variety of topics including the stages of Dementia, how to care for yourself as a caregiver, ways to adapt activities and hobbies for someone with Dementia and tips on navigating the disease.
Facilitator
Amy House is a trained facilitator with the Alzheimer's Association and Certified in Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care
When
Third Monday every month 2:30 P.M. to 3:30 P.M.
Where
New Brighton Community Center
400 10th Street NW
New Brighton, MN 55112
RSVP
None needed
Cost
Free
Information
Contact Amy House 651-746-5611 or ahouse@brightondale.com
Dementia Support Group and Monthly Education
What
Support and Education for anyone with a friend or family member with Alzheimer's or other types of Dementia. This small support group discusses a variety of topics including the stages of Dementia, how to care for yourself as a caregiver, ways to adapt activities and hobbies for someone with Dementia and tips on navigating the disease.
Facilitator
Amy House is a trained facilitator with the Alzheimer's Association and Certified in Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care
When
First Thursday every month 6:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.
Where
Meadowood Shores
2100 Silver Creek Rd
New Brighton, MN 55112
RSVP
None needed
Cost
Free
Information
Contact Amy House 651-746-5611 or ahouse@brightondale.com
Early Onset Dementia Support Group
What
The HealthPartners Center for Memory & Aging is starting a new group for those who have been diagnosed with early onset dementia and are 65 or younger. Advance registration is required.
When
Third Tuesday of every month 11:00 AM to Noon
Where
HealthPartners Neuroscience Center
295 Phalen Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55130
Registration
Call 651-495-6355 or email MemoryLoss@healthpartners.com
Cost
FREE
NE Day Spot
What
People with early to moderate stage dementia and other health conditions can spend four hours together with our wonderful volunteers and staff. We’ll engage our bodies and minds to stay as healthy as we can. Family and friend caregivers get a four-hour break to rest, run errands, enjoy the company of friends and rejuvenate.
A staff and volunteer led day of activities, exercise, engagement and discussion for older adults with early to moderate stage dementia and other health conditions.
No hands-on care is provided, so you must be able to eat, walk and use the restroom independently.
When
Every Friday, 10:00 A.M.-2:00 P.M.
Where
East Side Neighborhood Services
1700 2nd St NE
Minneapolis MN 55413
Cost
Sliding fee scale, $0-$45
RSVP
Pre-screening is required. Contact Linnea Tweed at 612-787-4045 or LTweed@esns.org
More information
Contact Linnea Tweed at 612-787-4045 or LTweed@esns.org
Interested in volunteering?
Contact Jennifer Grilliot at 612-787-4104 or jgrilliot@esns.org
To access information about additional Memory Cafes,
check out Memory Cafes in Minnesota Memory Cafe Directory
Lewy Body Dementia Support Groups
Twin Cities Support Group for Persons with Lewy Body Dementia
What
This group is aimed at persons in the early stages of LBD who would benefit from communicating with others about living with this disease. Our goal is to provide mutual support and companionship as we share experiences and resources. Caregivers are also invited, and those persons needing assistance should be accompanied by a caregiver.
Facilitator
Paula Biever, Co-Facilitator of the MN E Metro LBD Caregiver Support Group; Member of the Roseville Alzheimer's and Dementia Community Action Team.
Co-Sponsors
Second Half with Lyngblomsten, the Lewy Body Dementia Association, and Centennial United Methodist Church.
When
First Wednesday of each month from 10:00-11:30 A.M., except holidays
Where
Centennial United Methodist Church - Asbury Room
1524 W. County Rd C2 (County Rd C2 at Snelling)
Roseville, MN 55113
Cost
FREE - No registration required
Contact
Paula Biever 651-308-9003 or paula.biever@gmail.com
Carolyn Klaver, RN, 952-261-5235 or cklaver@lyngblomsten.org
Minnesota East Metro LBD Caregiver Support Group
What
A support group for caregivers and family members of people with Lewy Body Dementia, and people in early stages of the disease. We provide a comfortable and compassionate place to share experiences, support, and resources as we journey with our loved one through the many phases of this disease. Run by trained volunteers and peers.
When
Third Monday of every month at 6:30 P.M.
Where
Ecumen Lakeview Commons
1200 Lakewood Dr. N.
Maplewood, MN 55119
(For directions, contact Ecumen Lakeview Commons at 651-770-1111)
Registration
Not required
Cost
FREE
Contact
Paula and Erik Biever (651) 641-0130
Frontotemporal Dementia Support Groups
Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) Support Group
What
A new FTD support group
When
Second Tuesday each month 6:00 to 7:30 P.M.
Where
The Colony (Fireplace Lounge)
431 Prairie Center Drive
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Cost
FREE
Contact
Sarah Lunneborg-Vance (612) 719-0591
Parkinson’s Disease Support Groups
*NEW*
Support Group for Caregivers of People with Parkinson's Disease
What
An opportunity for caregivers of people with Parkinson's Disease to meet with others and talk about the joys and stresses of caregiving and share what works and gain support. Respite may be available at Wilder's day program with pre-approval.
When
Fourth Wednesday of the month beginning March 25, 2020; 1:00–2:30 P.M.
Where
Wilder’s Community Center for Aging
650 Marshall Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55104
Cost
None
Respite Care
Please call 651-280-2273 by the Monday before the meeting if you need respite
Parkinson’s Disease Support Group
What
For caregivers and people living with Parkinson's or other movement disorders. This support group is an informal, self-managed organization of people with Parkinson’s and their caregivers whose purpose is to share information and offer mutual support in a spirit of self-acceptance. It is also a place where other family members and friends can feel welcome and supported.
- informal gathering
- facilitated by social workers
- not a therapy group or class
- self-directed group
- any stage of PD welcome
This group is open to the community and free to attend. Come as often as you are able. New members always welcome.
When
First Thursday of the month; 1:00–3:00 P.M.
Where
Lyngblomsten - The Heritage
1440 Midway Parkway
St. Paul, MN 55108
Contact
Jay Haukom (651) 632-5391 or jhaukom@lyngblomsten.org
Parkinson’s Support Group
What
This PD support group is a combination of education and support. The group determines what they want to learn about. Generally host a speaker every other month. On the months without a speaker, we split into two groups with carepartners in one and persons with PD in another.
When
Third Monday of each month from 6:00-8:00 P.M.
Where
Woodbury Lutheran Church
7380 Afton Rd.
Woodbury MN 55125
Cost
FREE
RSVP
Not required, but appreciated.
More information
Call (651) 495-6305 or email sandra.c.varpness@healthpartners.com
Parkinson’s Caregiver Education and Support Group
What
This group covers a variety of topics for those who care for loved ones with Parkinson’s. Topics include:
- Self-care for the caregiver
- Strategies for caring for someone
- Accessing community resources
- Financial and legal planning
The first hour will be a speaker presenting on a topic listed below. The second hour will be for discussion and support.
This program is supported by a grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation of Minnesota.
When
Fourth Thursday of each month from 1:00-3:30 P.M.
Where
HealthPartners Neuroscience Center
295 Phalen Blvd.
St Paul, MN 55130.
Cost
FREE
RSVP
Required. RSVP to Sandy Varpnes at 651-495-6343 or sandra.c.varpness@healthpartners.com
Former Dementia Caregiver Support Group and Bereavement Groups
Former Dementia Caregiver Re-Entry Initiative
What
Find the “new” you after caregiving. In an informal setting, share with others who have had a similar journey. This is an opportunity to move past the grief and loss to reclaim “you”, and create a meaningful life beyond your caregiver role. Experienced facilitators will coordinate and offer referrals and resources as needed.
Sponsors
- Roseville Alzheimer’s & Dementia Community Action Team (Rsvl A/D)
- City of Roseville
- Ramsey County Library
When
Third Tuesday of each month, 1:00-2:30 P.M.
Where
New Life Presbyterian Church
965 Larpenteur Ave W.
Roseville, MN 55113
Cost
Free
More Information
Warren (612) 791-5316
SAP Bereavement Group
What
This group offers support for people coping with the death of a loved one, whether recent or some time ago. Compassionate support from others in an essential component of the journey of grief. Caring peer group meets monthly to:
- Understand the grief process
- Listen to each other’s stories and memories
- Provide an environment of acceptance, personal growth, and resiliency
- Support each other
- Share ideas and resources
When
First Thursday of every month, 10:00-11:30 A.M.
Cost
FREE
Where
St. Anthony Park United Church of Christ
2129 Commonwealth Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55108
Vision Loss Support Groups
Vision Loss Support Group
What
Information, resources, and support. A Vision Loss Resources representative will be available at each meeting.
Sponsors
Second Half with Lyngblomsten and the Lewy Body Dementia Association
When
Second Wednesday of each month from 1:00-2:00 P.M. (no meetings in July or August)
Where
Lyngblomsten Campus, Community Room, lower level
1415 Almond Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55108
Registration
None required
Cost
FREE
More information
Contact Becky Hulden, RN at (651) 632-5335 or bhulden@lyngblomsten.org
Online Resources
Alzheimer’s Speaks Radio
What
Alzheimer’s Speaks Radio gives voice to those afflicted with memory loss, their care partners as well as researchers, advocates, businesses, authors, musicians, movie directors… as it relates to dementia and caregiving. Our goal is to raise awareness, give hope, reduce fears and remove stigmas by sharing real everyday life stories of living with dementia.
When
Each Tuesday and Thursday the show is live at 1 P.M. Central Time. People can listen to the show live or archived via their computer at:
Note
All episodes are recorded and can be accessed at any time
Where
On the Internet
Cost
Free
Dementia Chats™ Webinars
What
Dementia Chats™ was created with the intention to educate people living with dementia; their care partners both family and friends as well as professionals and advocates. Our Experts are those diagnosed with dementia.
When
All episodes are recorded and you can watch them at your convenience.
Where
On the Internet: https://alzheimersspeaks.com/dementia-chats-webinar
Cost
Free
Alzheimer's Foundation of America Caregiver Support Groups (telephone-based)
What
Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers free weekly, telephone based support groups, AFA’s licensed social workers, designed to give caregivers a place to connect and share with one another.
These telephone support groups are valuable for working caregivers and/or caregivers who cannot attend in-person group meetings.
To find the current schedule and register for a caregiver support group, contact AFA’s National Toll-Free Helpline at 866-232-8484 and speak with one of AFA’s licensed social workers.
When
Schedule as of 7/2018:
- General Caregiver Support Group - Mondays, 3:00-4:00 P.M.
- Young Onset Spousal Support Group - Tuesdays, 1:30-2:30 P.M.
- Long-term Care Support Group - Thursdays, 3:00-4::00 P.M.
More information
Visit https://alzfdn.org/caregiving-resources/2860-2/
Cost
FREE
Senior LinkAge Line®—Family Caregiver Resources
What
This website has links to provide information about caregiving topics. You can speak with a trained volunteer by phone Monday – Friday 8:00 A.M.–4:30 P.M.
When
24/7
Where
https://metroaging.org/help-information/family-caregiver-resources/
Phone support line
Senior LinkAge Line® 1-800-333-2433
Monday–Friday 8:00 A.M.-4:30 P.M.
AARP Family Caregiving website
What
This website has links to provide information about caregiving topics:
- Basics
- Care at Home
- Health
- Financial & Legal Affairs
- Caregiver Life Balance
- Community
- Local Resources & Solutions
Downloadable care guides are available in multiple languages.
Note
This site has advertisements including solicitation for AARP membership.
When
24/7
Where
https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/
Phone support line
Monday–Friday: 6:00 A.M.–10:00 P.M. (CT)
English 1-877-333-5885
Spanish 1-888-971-2013
Caregiver Action Network (CAN)
What
Caregiver Action Network is the nation’s leading family caregiver organization working to improve the quality of life for the more than 90 million Americans who care for loved ones with chronic conditions, disabilities, disease, or the frailties of old age.
This website provides links to resources for many different caregiving situations, including caregiving for people with Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease.
- Caregiver Video Resource Center
- Family Caregiver Toolbox: http://caregiveraction.org/family-caregiver-toolbox
- Online forums for posting questions and sharing solutions
When
24/7
Where
Alzheimer's Newsletter
What
The Alzheimer's Disease Research Center at Mayo Clinic offers a free email newsletter called Alzheimer's Caregiving.
The bimonthly newsletter offers features for both patients and their families and caregivers. The newsletter provides medical insight from Mayo Clinic experts, offers information about products and services, and includes tips from other caregivers for making day-to-day activities easier for yourself and your loved ones.
Where
To receive the Alzheimer's Caregiving e-newsletter, subscribe online https://newslettersignup.mayoclinic.com/?fn=203 or subscribe by email: mayoclinicalzheimers@everydayhealth.com
Alzheimer's Weekly E-news
What
Stay up-to-date on the latest news and advances in Alzheimer's treatments, care and research. Get tips for living with Alzheimer's as well as simple ideas on how you can support the fight to end Alzheimer's.
Source
Where
Subscribe
To subscribe visit the Alzheimer's Weekly E-news page.
Cost
Free
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