Find quality dementia support groups near you through the Alzheimer's Association's ZIP-code Community Resource Finder and 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900. You can also get local referrals through the federal Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116.
Dementia support groups are regular in-person or virtual meetings where caregivers and people living with dementia share experiences and practical tips. Start with your role and needs, then match to a caregiver, early-stage, or multilingual group. A short call ahead confirms fit, cost, and registration.
Medical information disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a physician or other qualified health professional about symptoms, medications, tests, or treatment decisions.
Table of Contents
- Start with the Alzheimer's Association
- Which type of group fits you?
- Other free places to look
- How to check quality before you join
Start with the Alzheimer's Association
According to the Alzheimer's Association, you can find nearby in-person and virtual meetings through its Community Resource Finder and register for meetings by ZIP code or Helpline. Staff can point you to a local chapter group and explain format and schedule. Listings change regularly, so confirm details before you go.
Chapters typically run separate caregiver groups and early-stage groups. Caregiver groups are for family and friends, not paid professionals. Early-stage groups often require prescreening to protect privacy and fit.
Which type of group fits you?
Choose a caregiver group if you provide daily help, coordinate care, or need coping strategies. Choose an early-stage or younger-onset group if you are living with early symptoms and want peer discussion.
Multilingual groups and the ALZConnected online community help when language, work hours, or travel limit attendance. Your doctor can also help you choose. According to guidance from the National Institute on Aging, caregivers benefit from joining in-person or online groups to share experiences and tips, and can find groups through their doctor or local chapter.
Other free places to look
The Alzheimer's Foundation of America provides free caregiver groups led by licensed social workers trained in dementia care. Its 7-day Helpline at 866-232-8484 offers help by phone, text, and webchat.
These groups suit caregivers who want trained facilitation without a fee. The Family Caregiver Alliance offers online caregiver groups, workshops, classes, respite options, and state-by-state service listings. According to the Administration for Community Living, you can get referrals from the Eldercare Locator to your local Area Agency on Aging for caregiver groups, respite, meals, and home-care programs.
How to check quality before you join
Quality varies by group, so call ahead before attending. Ask about facilitator training, group size, structure, cost, and whether registration is required.
Many Association and Foundation groups are free, but confirm schedule changes. Attend once as a trial when possible. A good group starts on time, protects privacy, keeps discussion focused, and shares local resources for next steps.
- Who leads the group and what dementia training do they have
- Who may attend, including limits for paid aides
- Meeting format, length, and in-person or virtual options
- Cost, registration steps, and prescreening for early-stage groups
- Confidentiality rules and how advice and referrals are handled
