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Coping with Change - Finding Support
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During difficult times, it is helpful to know that there are others who understand what we or those close to us are going through. This is especially important in our later years, which may involve the presence of chronic illness, the struggles of becoming a caregiver, and the loss of loved ones. These changes may make it difficult for us to openly share our concerns and feelings with our usual support system of friends or family.
According to Arlene Phillips, LCSW, Manager of Senior Services at the John Muir Health, "Particularly in this age group, people feel that they shouldn’t have to reach out and ask for help—there is a sense of pride and of protecting one’s privacy. But when they do break down the barriers and join a support group, they often feel their isolation is mitigated to a remarkable extent. Support groups are also so informational—many who join are surprised that so many services are available."
Attending a support group may be one of the best ways to cope with changes in our lives. Support groups can be a safe place to tell our stories, share our feelings and relate to others going through similar struggles. There are many support groups, addressing a wide range of concerns, in our local area. Some of these groups, sponsored by John Muir Health Senior Services and other collaborating agencies, are described below.
Grief Support Group
This group is for those who have lost someone close to them, to help them understand, accept and cope with their loss.
Stroke Support Group of Contra Costa County
Provides support and education for individuals recovering from a stroke, as well as families and friends.
Members of the community can attend any of the groups on a drop-in basis. The support groups are offered at no cost and pre-registration is not required. Some of the groups are held at John Muir Medical Center, Walnut Creek Campus, others at John Muir Medical Center, Concord Campus. To get specific information about meeting times and locations of these groups or others available in the community, please call the Senior Services office at (925) 947-3300.
John Muir Health Senior Services offers a wide range of educational programs, support groups, resource information and assessment services which focus on older adults, their families and those caring for them.