Thursday, April 4, 2024

Wesley Village in Shelton hosts monthly support group for caregivers



SHELTON - There are 80,000 people living with Alzheimer’s disease in Connecticut and twice as many caregivers, many unpaid family members, and friends. 

Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia can be challenging. Changes in the person’s behavior as the disease progresses can lead to frustration and anxiety. We [at Wesley Village] are here to help.


In collaboration with the Alzheimer's Association Connecticut Chapter, Wesley Village hosts a support group at its senior living campus, 580 Long Hill Ave., on the second Tuesday of each month

The group is free to attend and specifically designed for those caring for someone with any form of dementia. 

The next meeting will be held from 5:30-7 p.m. Tuesday.

Alzheimer’s Association® support groups, led by trained facilitators, are a safe place for care partners to develop a support system, exchange practical information on challenges and possible solutions, talk through issues and ways of coping and learn about community resources.


"When caring for the most important people in our lives, it can seem selfish to carve out a small amount of time for our own well-being,” said Ann Panagulias, Activities Director at Lifestyle Transitions at Wesley Heights, a memory care neighborhood on the campus. Panagulias, a Certified Dementia Practitioner, co-facilitates the group at Wesley Village with the Alzheimer’s Association.  “One member of our group often reminds us what flight attendants advise before every take-off: ‘Put on your oxygen mask first, then assist others.’  A key to good caregiving is being a healthy caregiver.  Our inspirational group provides a safe space to talk, listen, breathe, cry and even laugh. "


Those interested in participating in the group may contact Ann Panagulias at 203-447-5407 or apanagulias@umh.org.


For more information about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, support groups or any of the Alzheimer’s Association education classes, contact the 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900, the Connecticut Chapter main office at 860-406-3040 or visit www.alz.org/ct

Reach out. You do not have to go through this alone. 


About the Alzheimer’s Association: The Alzheimer’s Association leads the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia - by 

accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia. 

Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.


About Wesley Village: Wesley Village senior living campus is located at 580 Long Hill Avenue in Shelton and is part of United Methodist Homes, a local not-for-profit organization. 

The Wesley Village campus offers independent and assisted living, enhanced assisted living, early memory support, skilled nursing, and short-term rehab. 

To learn more about Crosby Commons, Wesley Heights, Lifestyle Transitions, or Bishop Wicke Health Center, visit our website or contact us at 203.225.5024. 

To become part of the Wesley Village team, visit our website at: https://www.umh.org/career-opportunities-at-umh.



This is a press release from United Methodist Homes.


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