Caring Through the Holidays: Support Group Opportunities from ESLC

Dear Friends,

The holiday season is a time to connect and care for one another. This November, as we recognize Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, we want to take a moment and share with you the support group offerings available through ESLC’s Neighborhood Program. These groups are designed to offer emotional, educational and spiritual support to caregivers navigating the challenges of providing care to those living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

You are not alone in the caregiving journey. Each day brings moments that require compassion, patience and resilience. Here are a few tips from our Ways to Stay Connected guide that may help along the way:

• Make eye contact and speak clearly.
• Slow down and practice the 5-second rule to give time for responses.
• Ask yes/no or either/or questions to simplify communication.
• Offer a word if they’re stuck and use gestures to support understanding.
• Spend time together doing things that don’t require conversation.
• Laugh together when possible.

Our support groups are facilitated by trained professionals and held in welcoming, confidential environments virtually and across Monroe County. Whether you’re new to caregiving or have been on this journey for some time, we invite you to join us and connect with others who understand your experience.

In-Person Support Groups

• Valley Manor (1570 East Ave): 2^nd Tuesday of every month at 2:00 PM
• Paul’s Episcopal Church (25 Westminster Rd): 3^rd Thursday of every month at 12 PM
• Browncroft Community Church (2530 Browncroft Blvd): 2^nd Tuesday of every month at 6:00 PM
• Seabury Woods (110 Dalaker Dr): 3^rd Thursday of every month at 5:00 PM
• Beatrice Place (600 Denise Rd): Last Friday of every month at 11:00 AM

Virtual Support Groups:

• Exhale and Connect with Other Caregivers: 2^nd Monday of every month at 5:00 PM
• Episcopal Diocese Support Group: Last Thursday of every month at 5:00 PM

Special Event: December Expert Panel

We also invite you to join our upcoming presentation, Expert Panel Series: Caregiving During the Holiday Season, taking place on Tuesday, December 2^nd , 2025, via Zoom.

This virtual session will feature a panel of experts offering practical tips, emotional support and resources to help caregivers navigate the unique challenges of the holiday season. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage with the panelists in real time.

To register or learn more, please contact:

Email: GUIDEservices@EpiscopalSeniorLife.org

Phone: 585-546-8439 x1970

To receive links for virtual programming, please email bpotvin@EpiscopalSeniorLife.org.

If you have questions or would like help identifying the best group for your needs, please don’t hesitate to reach out. ESLC is here to support you on your caregiving journey.

Sincerely,

Brian Potvin

Director of Community Dementia Services

Episcopal SeniorLife Communities

bpotvin@EpiscopalSeniorLife.org

585.546.8439 x1970