ALZHEIMER'S FAMILIES FORM SUPPORT GROUP

A support group for family members and friends of Alzheimer's Disease patients has started at the Cape Girardeau Nursing Center.

The group has been organized through the St. Louis Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association.

The Cape Girardeau Nursing Center Support Group has access to information and literature on Alzheimer's Disease and other similar illnesses, ranging from updates on research to everyday suggestions on how families can cope.

It also serves an educational role for those whose family members have recently been diagnosed.

"One of the most important aspects of coping with the disease is for the family members to know they are not alone" said Kathy Higley, executive director of the St. Louis Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. "There is help and local support groups are among the most effective ways to find it."

The Cape Girardeau Nursing Center group will meet the third Thursday of every month at 3 p.m. at 2852 Independence. For more information call Diane Caldwell at the nursing center at 335-2086.