PORT WASHINGTON, NY—Recognizing an increasing need among the growing and diverse number of families coping with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, the Long Island Alzheimer’s Foundation (LIAF) is introducing a unique support group for younger individuals in the early stages of the disease, as well as expanding groups for other people with the brain disorder, caregivers and adult children.

In total, LIAF is adding eight more support groups and will accept additional members at seven existing programs in Nassau and Suffolk.

LIAF is one of the few organizations that sponsor support groups for individuals who suffer from Alzheimer’s and related dementias, and the only organization that provides one for adult children of family members with the brain disorder on Long Island.
“This heartbreaking disease does not discriminate. It strikes the young as well as the old, and it takes its toll not only on the person with the disease but also on their spouses, adult children and other family members. We are committed to lightening the burden of anyone that this disease attacks,” said Eric J. Hall, LIAF’s CEO.

LIAF decided to pioneer the support group for younger adults with the disease after witnessing more requests for assistance from this sector. While Alzheimer’s more commonly affects older people—an estimated one in ten aged 65 and older and one in two aged 85 and older, a rare and aggressive form of the disease, called early-onset, generally affects those 30- to 60-years-old.

By segmenting this younger group, social workers can specifically address their concerns, which often sharply differ from those of the traditionally older participants at LIAF’s other support groups for individuals with Alzheimer’s.

The new group will meet on Wednesdays from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at The Bristal at Westbury.

“This is an important gap that needed to be filled. Younger people aren’t always comfortable mixing with their elders because their issues are not in sync, especially when it relates to children, careers and eligibility for social services,” Hall said.

Led by certified social workers, the support groups give members the opportunity to express their feelings, share strategies and develop friendships. The groups gather in the afternoon or evening at different venues throughout Nassau and Suffolk.

LIAF’s support groups for individuals with the disease are held in Commack, East Meadow, North Woodmere, Port Washington, and Westbury. Caregiver groups are scheduled in Commack, East Meadow, North Woodmere, Port Washington and Westbury. Sessions for adult children are held in the evenings in North Woodmere, Port Washington and Westbury.

LIAF asks interested participants to call for an interview prior to attending a group to ensure proper placement. Support groups for individuals with dementia are offered at no charge; LIAF asks caregivers and adult children to contribute $10 per session. For a detailed schedule or to arrange an interview, call LIAF toll-free at 866-789-5423.

Founded in 1988, LIAF provides a wide range of educational and social services to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, and their families in Nassau, Suffolk, Queens and Brooklyn. For more information, call 866-789-5423 or visit www.liaf.org.