Support for the supporters: Alzheimer’s caregiver group for St. John begins in May
Published 12:06 am Wednesday, April 25, 2018
- LaPlace resident Debbie Tamplain holds up a photograph of her parents. Tamplain took care of her mother, Barbara Wise, for six years as Barbara suffered through Alzheimer’s. The experience is leading her to launch a caregiver support group.
LAPLACE — When her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in December 2011, Debbie Tamplain of LaPlace embarked on a six-year journey as a caregiver.
Every stage presented new challenges requiring comprehensive research. Tamplain watched videos to find the best caretaking techniques but ultimately missed having the support of people going through the same experience.
Barbara Wise passed away in the fall, but Tamplain’s role as a caregiver was far from over.
With the nearest resources stationed in Metairie, Tamplain took steps to establish an Alzheimer’s caregiver support group for St. John the Baptist Parish residents.
Confidential meetings will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. the first Monday of every month in the event room at Sicily’s Italian Buffet in LaPlace, beginning May 7.
Debbie Tamplain sits with an Alzheimer’s support shirt and several sensory cases she created to comfort hospice patients.
Attendees are invited to join the group for lunch following the meeting.
“If I can make even one person’s journey a little easier and see them breathe a little sigh of relief, I’ve done what I need to do,” Tamplain said.
The support group’s purpose is to show caregivers and family members with loved ones suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia that they are not alone.
Six years taking care of her mother taught Tamplain tips to share with the group, including giving loved ones baby dolls as comfort objects, utilizing sensory stimulation materials and playing old, nostalgic music. Participants can choose whether to join in with their own experiences or sit back and observe. A suggestion box is available for those who would rather not speak out.
Tamplain took free training courses through the Alzheimer’s Association Louisiana Chapter in Metairie to become a community educator.
Stacey Denham, associate director of programs and policy, said the Alzheimer’s Association relies on volunteers to offer an array of support services and education.
Informational materials will be made available to participants.
Denham said quarterly training sessions cover the basics of Alzheimer’s and dementia, focusing on communication, broaching difficult conversations and financial planning.
“These support groups become your extended family,” Denham said. “Alzheimer’s and dementia can be very isolating diseases, so it’s important to have phone numbers and expertise of fellow support group members who have been in your shoes.”
Tamplain hopes group members will band together to participate in events such as the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in November.
For the past two years, Tamplain has also crafted and donated sensory pillowcases to comfort late-stage Alzheimer’s patients.
For more information about the support group, contact Tamplain at 504-415-8511. A 24-hour support helpline is available at 1-800-272-3900.
