Alzheimer’s Support Groupsupport_ab13ph8u2021-06-04T09:37:04-05:00

ALZHEIMER’S
Caregiver Support

We help families know they don’t have to do all the caregiving by themselves.

To care for those who once cared for us is one of life’s biggest honors, but you don’t have to do it alone.

We are here for you!

You are welcome to bring your siblings or family members to the sessions. It will give you chance for each of you to hear first hand how important your role will be in the care of your loved one.

There is NO CHARGE to attend.

St. John’s Community Care remains committed to serving families during this uncertain time. St. John’s takes the health and safety of our participants and staff very seriously. Out of abundant precaution for our senior population, we are providing all services through video and phone conferencing until we are able to resume in-person visits per public health guidelines. On behalf of our organization and the families we serve, we thank you.

Online – ZOOM – Alzheimer’s Support Group – 1:30 – 3:00 pm
If you would like to join the Zoom group meeting online, please email Gail at gshaw@stjohnscc.org
She will send you the instructions and invitation to join the meeting.

Join others dealing with dementia and memory loss the 2nd Tuesday of each month.
Chartered in 1991, this group is intended for family caregivers with loved ones suffering from
Alzheimer’s. This group is facilitated by experienced leaders specially trained in
issues of dementia and aging.

Temporarily Suspended – In Person
Alzheimer’s Support Group in Collinsville

Chartered in 1991, this support group is intended for family caregivers with loved ones suffering from Alzheimer’s. This group is co-facilitated by two experienced leaders specially trained in issues of dementia and aging. It meets in the St. John’s Community Care (222 Goethe Avenue), conference room in Collinsville from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. the second Tuesday of every month. Care for loved ones is available with a reservation in our Adult Day Program so caregivers can attend the meeting. For more information call Gail at 618-344-5008 or email gshaw@stjohnscc.org

St. John’s Community Care Alzheimer’s Group Facilitator

Gail Shaw, MPADementia Care Specialist - Coordinator of Training & Support

Gail Shaw has 25 years of experience working with clients and families, in a variety different setting, who have been challenged by aging and memory loss. She brings to the table a wealth of knowledge from working as a Health Center Manager, CCP Case Manager and Nursing Home Administrator. Gail has worked with many family caregivers on how to

navigate all the issues they faced caring for their love one. Gail has facilitates a support group for the Alzheimer’s Association and has given many Dementia Friendly Sessions out in the community.

She is an alumni of SIUE. Gail has a Bachelor of Science where she double majored in psychology and social work. She went back to SIUE and received a Master of Public Administration, concentrating on Non-profit management. To keep up to date on the latest in the area of dementia and Alzheimer’s, Gail regularly attends a variety of training seminars and educational seminars given by the Alzheimer’s Association and researchers from the Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. She completed training and has been certified as an IDoA Dementia Care Specialist.

Gail Shaw, can be reached at 618-344-5008 or gshaw@stjohnscc.org

By donating to our organization, you are joining the mission to make a positive difference in the lives of people affected by aging or disabilities. Every day our staff, board and family caregivers work tirelessly to support those that need help, be it our clients, family caregivers or communities. Your donations make it possible to make a positive difference in the lives of people challenged by aging or disabilities.

DONATE

Cheryl M.

St. John’s Adult Day Program is a one of a kind, very unique, classy place. My 86-year-old Mom has been...

St. John's Community Care

2014-02-04T00:23:25-06:00

St. John’s Adult Day Program is a one of a kind, very unique, classy place. My 86-year-old Mom has been attending almost a year and it’s the best anti-depressant for her. I have seen a number of adult day cares and none compare. I’ve noticed such a sense of dignity and respect for every client.

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/cheryl-m/

Marilyn Doty

I grew up in a farm family. My parents farmed their entire lives, so farming was not only a job—it...

St. John's Community Care

2017-11-03T20:15:53-05:00

I grew up in a farm family. My parents farmed their entire lives, so farming was not only a job—it was a way of life for them which they enjoyed and continued to do in their retirement. When my Mom became ill, my Dad became her main caregiver with help from my 2 sisters and me. As Mom’s health declined, it became too hard for my 80 year old Father to help Mom and manage their small farm on a daily basis. We decided to have my Mother became a participant at the Adult Day Center. On the days when she was there, we knew she was receiving excellent care and she was engaged in activities with other participants. This gave my father a break from care-giving and allowed him some guilt-free time outside tending to his farm. Attending St. John’s was a great choice and a blessing to my family!

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/marilyn-doty/

Daughter of an Adult Day Program Participant

Thanks, you’re doing an awesome job! Mom looks forward to coming to St. John’s. You’ve added a sparkle back in...

St. John's Community Care

2014-02-04T00:23:45-06:00

Thanks, you’re doing an awesome job! Mom looks forward to coming to St. John’s. You’ve added a sparkle back in her life.

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/daughter-adult-day-program-participant/

Penelope, Karen and Constance

The way you come to the aid of others is fabulous. Thank you so much! God Bless You All.

St. John's Community Care

2020-11-05T07:34:40-06:00

The way you come to the aid of others is fabulous. Thank you so much! God Bless You All.

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/penelope-karen-constance/

Client’s Family

Thank you to the staff of St. John’s Adult Day Care and Home Services. I honestly don’t know what we’d...

St. John's Community Care

2014-02-04T00:24:26-06:00

Thank you to the staff of St. John’s Adult Day Care and Home Services. I honestly don’t know what we’d do without you. You came highly recommended and now I know why.

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/clients-family/

Blanche

I am writing to let you know as I remember Gene I also remember what a wonderful, caring, loving Adult...

St. John's Community Care

2021-05-10T16:02:19-05:00

I am writing to let you know as I remember Gene I also remember what a wonderful, caring, loving Adult Day program you have at St. John's Community Care. I call it the Angel Sanctuary. Where I met many angels serving there. With my children by my side we set out to look for the perfect place, so it turned out that St. John's was the 1st and last! My niece and I were so touched that day as you toured us through your center. We could see how warm and caring each one of the staff were and how they were caring for each one of the participants that day. I journaled during this journey and I look back are smile as I re-read all the "fun things" Gene and got to do and participate in. I am grateful he was cared for patiently, lovingly and in a fun and humorously way. My family will never forget you who serve there. Thank you for your friendship. Love Blanche

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/blanche/

Client’s Family

Thank you for all that you do for the sick and aging. Just wanted to let you all know that...

St. John's Community Care

2014-02-04T00:24:42-06:00

Thank you for all that you do for the sick and aging. Just wanted to let you all know that our family thinks you are Angels on Earth.

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/clients-family-2/

Mary Kay Lype

St. John’s is a wonderful place. My husband gets a full day of activity, both mental and physical, has fun,...

St. John's Community Care

2021-06-25T13:28:58-05:00

St. John’s is a wonderful place. My husband gets a full day of activity, both mental and physical, has fun, socializes, and enjoys helping others when he can. I, in turn, can get a few things done and relax a little. It’s so good for both of us. Being his caregiver 24/7 is truly exhausting. I am delighted St. John’s was able to reopen. During the months Jeff spent at home, he was less active and developed some mobility issues. I think that by returning to St. John’s and getting some therapy, he will get back to where he was.

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/mary-kay-lype/

Client’s Family

Donna has done a wonderful job. She is cheerful, patient, and diligent in caring for my mother, who needs a...

St. John's Community Care

2014-02-04T00:25:45-06:00

Donna has done a wonderful job. She is cheerful, patient, and diligent in caring for my mother, who needs a great deal of care and attention.

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/clients-family-3/

Kimberly Osborn

In October 2020, I moved from my family and home in Tennessee to care for my father in Granite City....

St. John's Community Care

2021-12-15T12:23:30-06:00

In October 2020, I moved from my family and home in Tennessee to care for my father in Granite City. My mother passed away in September 2020, and she had been his caregiver. Dad was diagnosed about 6 years ago with dementia, probably Alzheimer’s like his sister and mother. I found myself suddenly thrust into a new state, a new status, and away from my support system. My wonderful Hospice bereavement counselor told me about St. John’s Community Care and suggested that I might benefit from a class she had received a flyer about. In February 2021, I started taking the Savvy Caregiver’s class. I began to learn more about my dad’s diagnosis as well as the progression of the disease. We touched on important coping skills for caregivers involving daily living with a loved one with dementia. For me, the benefit of receiving the class materials for free was a blessing. It was also a wonderful benefit of receiving engaging with other caregivers and asking the staff ALL of my questions as we went through the handbook. I was directed to other community resources that, otherwise, I would have never known about. I am currently enrolled in the Stress Busting for Caregivers class through St. John’s Community Care. Although we are only beginning Chapter 3, I an already notice a reduction in my stress level! The first class was about breathing, which everyone should know how to do, right? But the stressful caregiving situations, I tend to tense up, breathing shallower, and not relaxing in the exhale. I am learning new skills that I can practice each day throughout the week. I am also able to email the facilitators any questions I have during the week, and they are prompt to get back to me. We have a lovely...

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/19629/

Pauline Thuenemann

I could tell when Van attended the Adult Day Program he was different, he was more content and agreeable. I...

St. John's Community Care

2014-02-19T15:26:35-06:00

I could tell when Van attended the Adult Day Program he was different, he was more content and agreeable. I really think the activities kept his mind busy and helped him have a since of accomplishment. All of the caregivers were always willing to answer any questions I had. They really cared about me and our entire family. St. John's helped us so much during the transition and gave us lots of information to help guide us before we had to move Van to a nursing care facility. I am grateful for their expertise! Pauline Thuenemann

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/pauline-theunemann/

Carolyn Koester

I so appreciate all the various links of communication everyone at St. John's stays on top of. You all are...

St. John's Community Care

2014-02-21T13:04:23-06:00

I so appreciate all the various links of communication everyone at St. John's stays on top of. You all are a great team. Thanks to the entire group at St. John's who take such pride in your jobs. The entire staff is great. In my work we often say "the speed of the leader is the speed of the group." Stacey is excellent in all aspects of her leadership position. She has compassion and truly loves her work. That is the environment she creates for those that work with her. My mom loves coming to St. John's. Playing games, crafts, different food than I cook and the fellowship is so valuable to her. St. John's provides so much more than I can attend to for her. I too am blessed to have her in the program. Thanks for helping enable her to stay living independent and not in a nursing home! Carolyn Koester

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/carolyn-koester/

Jan Smith

Thank you so much for letting me borrow the wheelchair. It was a huge help when I got home from...

St. John's Community Care

2014-03-21T11:58:03-05:00

Thank you so much for letting me borrow the wheelchair. It was a huge help when I got home from the hospital! It is a wonderful service that you do. I'm feeling much better now.

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/jan-smith/

Barbara Highlander

My prayers were answered when I was referred to St. John’s Community Care. I had to find home care for...

St. John's Community Care

2014-05-30T09:44:28-05:00

My prayers were answered when I was referred to St. John’s Community Care. I had to find home care for my mentally challenged brother who could not walk well or speak. I had a full time job and needed someone for 9 hours a day 5 days a week. I tried several other home care facilities before St. John’s and they did not work out. The day I met the caregiver director from St. John’s, I knew it was the one. I have been using St. John’s for home care for over 12 years. They have made my life so much easier and my brother continues to be happy with their care. In 2011 my husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. It was determined that he could stay at home but needed to attend a day program to keep his mind active. St. John’s was there to help me again. He enjoys the activities and seeing all the friends he has made since joining the group. In addition to the care services, they also provided me with additional resources that give me more balance and hope. I cannot say enough great things about St. John’s Community Care and all their services. It is like being part of a caring and loving family.

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/barbara-highlander/

Lon & Chris Fears

We would like to let you know how grateful we are for the care provided by St. John's Adult Day...

St. John's Community Care

2015-06-24T13:56:09-05:00

We would like to let you know how grateful we are for the care provided by St. John's Adult Day Care. Your service was an answer to our prayers. Due to the death of her grandmother, we were in need of someone to care for Joni as both of us work. Joni was comfortable from the first time she visited and loved her time spent there. All of the staff were kind and caring and we knew Joni was happy and well cared for. Joni is adjusting well to her new environment, but misses everyone at St. John's. With Deep Appreciation, God's Blessings, Lon & Chris Fears

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/lon-chris-fears/

Kent and Colleen

It is difficult to express how we feel about the care St. John's staff provided. Words are so inadequate. Please...

St. John's Community Care

2017-01-16T16:53:23-06:00

It is difficult to express how we feel about the care St. John's staff provided. Words are so inadequate. Please know we are forever grateful for the gentleness, humor, compassion and professionalism with which you and your staff have cared for our family. Sincerely, Kent and Colleen

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/kent-and-colleen/

Tom and Cheryl Mines

St. John’s has been wonderful! They are doing saintly work. When you love someone you want the best for them....

St. John's Community Care

2017-03-22T12:50:58-05:00

St. John’s has been wonderful! They are doing saintly work. When you love someone you want the best for them. When mom started having a few issues, I started checking out options. I really felt like a parent trying to find a trustworthy babysitter for a child. You don’t just hand off your child to anyone… because they cannot report. I am really fussy. I just want to know she is taken care of the way I would take care of her. Making sure she is safe, loved and treated with dignity. I found that kind of care with St. John’s Adult Day program. I can continue to work and take care of my personal needs while mom attends the program. I appreciate all the thought that goes into the program. They have entertainment, games, exercise, arts & crafts, and lots of social stimulation. All of these therapies are created to be fun experiences that are valuable to keeping her engaged and certainly add quality to her life. I love knowing she is “part of the family” at St. John’s. It makes my heart happy to know her time left here on earth can be meaningful and loving. I could go on and on! When you deeply love your parents, you want the best for them. I am so blessed to have a place like St. John’s so I can relax. Tom and Cheryl Mines

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/tom-cheryl-mines/

Jim & Carol Morrow

Thank you for the compassion and kindness you show to all the participants of the Adult Day Program throughout the...

St. John's Community Care

2014-02-04T00:09:38-06:00

Thank you for the compassion and kindness you show to all the participants of the Adult Day Program throughout the year.

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/jim-carol-morrow/

Janice

Thank you everyone for taking such good care of my mom Lucy. She passed away peacefully and no was not...

St. John's Community Care

2017-09-26T19:17:48-05:00

Thank you everyone for taking such good care of my mom Lucy. She passed away peacefully and no was not in pain. Without all of you, should could not have stayed in her home and that was her goal. You are all excellent and beautiful people. Thank you - Janice

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/janice/

Mary Perez & Family

Thank you so much for all of your help and assistance throughout the years. Your efforts have helped our family...

St. John's Community Care

2014-02-04T00:10:03-06:00

Thank you so much for all of your help and assistance throughout the years. Your efforts have helped our family through many difficult elder issues. It is so difficult to manage elder issues living thousands of miles away.

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/mary-perez-family/

Barbie

Thank you for your kind note – no, no one thought our journey with mom would last 13 years! She...

St. John's Community Care

2017-09-26T19:18:37-05:00

Thank you for your kind note – no, no one thought our journey with mom would last 13 years! She is incrementally worse every day it seems, but we know we are on God’s timeline. We are still so grateful for her time at St. John’s , as well as all the guidance and support from the staff. I sure miss seeing Stacey, Lois, Jill and all the girls – angels on Earth in my eyes! Thanks! Barbie

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/barbie/

Raymond & Mary Huber

Thanks so much for the wheelchair. We were so happy to receive it, we couldn’t believe it didn’t cost us....

St. John's Community Care

2014-02-04T00:10:19-06:00

Thanks so much for the wheelchair. We were so happy to receive it, we couldn’t believe it didn’t cost us. I said a prayer for all of you!

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/raymond-mary-huber/

Peggy & Dan

Thank you so kindly for the walker and the shower chair. The walker is very nice, almost like new. We...

St. John's Community Care

2017-09-26T19:19:48-05:00

Thank you so kindly for the walker and the shower chair. The walker is very nice, almost like new. We both use the shower chair and it is so great to be able to have a relaxing shower in our own home. After shopping for medical equipment, we knew we would never be able to afford that. God answered our prayers when we learned about your medical loan closet. Thanks again, without you good folks’ help we would still be struggling. God Bless You – Peggy & Dan

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/peggy-dan/

Doris Keller

The staff at St. John’s is so caring and do way more than I ask them. I couldn’t be more...

St. John's Community Care

2014-02-04T00:10:34-06:00

The staff at St. John’s is so caring and do way more than I ask them. I couldn’t be more pleased!

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/doris-keller/

Sandy Cooper

Words can never express my gratitude to you, your staff and your program. It came at just the right time...

St. John's Community Care

2017-09-26T19:21:31-05:00

Words can never express my gratitude to you, your staff and your program. It came at just the right time in my care giving days. Jack so enjoyed going there each Tues. and Thurs. and it gave me a reprieve. I will be eternally grateful for your kindness, your care of the adults and the obvious dedication to those that attend your program. I have and will continue to speak highly of your program and wish you all the best! Thank you - Sandy Cooper

https://stjohnscc.org/testimonials/sandy-cooper/

St. John's Community Care

We are here for you!

You are welcome to bring your siblings or family members to the sessions. It will give you chance for each of you to hear first hand how important your role will be in the care of your loved one.

Online – ZOOM – Alzheimer’s Support Group – 1:30 – 3:00 pm If you would like to join the Zoom group meeting online, please email Gail at gshaw@stjohnscc.org She will send you the instructions and invitation to join the meeting.

Temporarily Suspended – In Person Alzheimer’s Support Group in Collinsville

St. John’s Community Care Alzheimer’s Group Facilitator

Online – ZOOM – Alzheimer’s Support Group – 1:30 – 3:00 pm
If you would like to join the Zoom group meeting online, please email Gail at gshaw@stjohnscc.org
She will send you the instructions and invitation to join the meeting.

Temporarily Suspended – In Person
Alzheimer’s Support Group in Collinsville