Dementia Caregiving 101: Local support groups available for those dealig with memory loss
Published 1:30 am Wednesday, January 7, 2026
By Linda Klinefelter
As we embrace the new year, I see this as a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the wealth of support available in our community. Understanding these resources is not just beneficial for our cherished loved ones living with dementia; it is equally vital for their dedicated caregivers. Together, we can navigate this journey with compassion and strength.
Early Memory Loss Support & Empowerment Group (six weeks): Designed for people living with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) or early-stage dementia. A support group-style setting designed to offer a safe place to share experiences and acquire empowering tips for living with memory loss. Meetings are held at the Port Angeles Senior Center. Registration is required. Contact Bri Buchanan at brittie.buchanan@dshs.wa.gov or 360-417-8540.
The Friends Place: A wonderful program for individuals diagnosed with dementia. The program runs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at the Dungeness Community Church, 45 Eberle in Sequim. Registration is required before attendance. For more information, visit thefriendsplace-sequim.com or contact Program Director Rhonda Heyn at TheFriendsPlace@DCChurch.org.
The Caregiver Support Group: Facilitated by Debby Smith, this group normally meets at 10:15 a.m. on Fridays in the administrative building of Dungeness Community Church, 45 Eberle in Sequim.
Family Caregiver Support Group: Facilitated by Fran Koski, this group gathers in the community meeting room at KSQM 91.5 FM, 609 W. Washington St., #17, at 10 a.m. on the first and third Thursday of each month. There is also an online meeting on Teams (no download necessary) on the second Thursday of each month. For more information, contact Koski at 360-417-8549 or email fran.koski@dshs.wa.gov.
Alzheimer’s Support Group: This group meets from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on the second Monday of each month at the Port Angeles Senior Center, 328 East Seventh St. Judi is the facilitator and can be reached at 989-255-8399.
Social media: Many groups exist, such as the AARP Family Caregivers Discussion Group and the Caregiver Action Network Community Forum. You can also search for groups like “family caregivers support group” for dementia or even specific dementias. You will also find support groups on Facebook.
Caregiving can be incredibly demanding, often weighing heavily on our mental and physical well-being. That’s why it’s vital to tap into available resources and seek the support we deserve. Like many of you, I sometimes struggle to ask for help, but I urge you to recognize how important it is to prioritize your own self-care.
Seek out opportunities for meaningful breaks — every moment of respite counts. Reach out to a family member or a friend; their presence can be a comforting gift to both you and your loved one. Don’t hesitate to consult your primary medical provider for a referral to a therapist who can offer guidance and support. Also, consider asking your pastor if there are volunteers in your church who would be willing to spend some quality time with your loved one.
Reach out not only for yourself, but for your loved one.
