Smith Village Caregiver Support Group Focuses On Sleeping Problems

CHICAGO — For people in the early stages of dementia, sleep can be elusive. Caregivers, however, can help their loved ones get adequate sleep. Learn how at the Caregiver Support Group at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 20, at Smith Village, 2320 West 113th Place, Chicago.

This support group provides a confidential, safe and supportive environment and aims
to combat the isolation many caregivers experience. Meetings are planned for the third
Tuesday of every month.

“Sleep patterns change during different stages of Alzheimer’s disease,” says Alice
Keane, group leader. “During the early stages, caregivers can encourage sleep by minimizing
caffeine consumption, limiting stimulation in the evening, and discouraging too much napping
during the day. Because sleep deprivation can quickly become a challenge for caregivers
themselves, the group also will discuss ways to create calming evening routines that can help
them too."

The neighborhood meetings are free and open to all those caring for someone with
Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia. Alzheimer’s Association volunteers Alice
Keane, Smith Village resident, and Bridget Murphy, Smith Village life enrichment director,
lead the group.

For more information about the Caregiver Support Group meeting or about Smith
Village, call 773-474-7300.