Here are resources that are available to caregivers of alzheimers and dementia patients.  This list was compiled by Debbie Selsavage of Coping with Dementia, and we urge you to utilize what you can to learn, educate, and keep your loved one safe.  Call Debbie if you are looking for help.

Scent jars are a way to be proactive in protecting a loved one who may wander and go missing. Find-M’ Friends has distributed more than 10,000 scent jars in Citrus County, which are now manufactured locally by The Key Care Clients.  They are free, but we may suggest a small donation to fund new inventory.  To learn how to acquire your Out of Harm’s Way kits, call Linda Boles at 352-613-3486 or call me at 352-422-3663.   Learn more about Find-M’ Friends at: http://findmfriends.com/

Elder Options has FREE educational programs including Savvy Caregiver Training Workshops.  They also have a help line that will provide you with services that can meet many of your needs.  For more information please call 352-692-5277 or email Johnnie at jonesj@agingresources.org or Teresa Lonon at lonont@agingresources.org.  Their website is: http://www.agingresources.org/savvy-caregiver-training/

The Alzheimer’s Family Organization offers programs and services such as support groups (more than 50 are available) and Caregiver Learning Days.  For more Information, please call 352-616-0170 or check out their web site at http://www.alzheimersfamily.org/. See how they can be a resource for you. Become a member and ask about our Wander’s Reunification Program.

Citrus County Senior Services has many opportunities for socializing with other seniors.  These include community centers, meals on wheels,  companion services and respite/Day stay programs (could be FREE).  For more information on their many programs call 352-527-5975. Website is: http//www.citrusbocc.com

Key Care Club-Is an Adult Day Care center offering services to adults living with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and/or progressive brain disorders.  They are open Monday-Friday 7:30-5:30 pm.  Open to the general public. Now there is an option that could offer you some respite for FREE.  For more information, call Citrus County Senior Programs at 352-527-5930 or 352-795-5541 x 201.

The Citrus County Veterans Office provides assistance and guidance to veterans and their families to navigate the VA system to get the benefits you deserve.  For more information or to make an appointment call 352-527-5916.  Their website is: http://www.citrusbocc.com

The United Way has many services for the community.  One is a helpline. Call 2-1-1 to seek the services you need.

Catholic Charities has a respite program in Hernando County.  You can drop your loved one off  and know that they will be safe, have fun, and be cared for while you take a much-deserved breather. Call 352-686-9897 x 28 for more information.

Teepa Snow has many videos on YouTube that can be very helpful if you are caring for a person with dementia.  If you get a chance to attend one of her workshops, it will be time well spent.  Please take the time to view them at Teepa Snow-You Tube Videos or on her website: http://www.teepasnow.com

Alzheimer’s Association has a 24/7 Helpline, just call 1-800-272-3900.

Other Support Groups in Citrus County

Grand Living at Citrus Hills-third Wednesday of the month 12:00 -1:30 pm. Call Marilyn Campbell 352-249-1183.

Floral City United Methodist Church-third Friday of the month at 10:30 am.  Call Helen 352-341-2867 or Marcia 352-726-7740

First United Methodist Church in Homosassa-second Monday of the month at 1:00 pm. They also have respite for your loved one.  Call Karen Kline 352-628-4083.

Cornerstone Baptist Church-first Tuesday of the month at 6:00 pm.  Call the church at 352-726-7335.  April Zay is the facilitator.

Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute-Fourth Thursday of each month-2:00-3:00 pm. Call Wendy Hall for information 527-0106.  Additional support group meetings on Mondays.

Sugarmill Manor-This support group is run under the auspices of The Alzheimer’s Family Organization.Contact Samantha for more information 352-382-2531. Call first.

Our Lady of Grace- HPH Hospice Caregiver Support Group.  The last Wednesday of the month. Call Betsy for more information at 352-527-4600.

Citrus County has lots of services and opportunities available to caregivers.

Call 352-422-3663 now to find out what services will be a good fit for you and your loved one.

If you are a provider of support and services useful to a family living with dementia and would like to be listed in the Coping with Dementia newsletter monthly, just call Debbie at 352-422-3663.

We all need help, and we all deserve the best.