ALZHEIMER’S Caregiver Support
Alzheimer’s Support Group 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.
St. John’s Community Care: Providing Free Alzheimer’s Support Group for Caregivers of Seniors and Adults with Dementia
At St. John’s Community Care, we understand the challenges that come with caring for a loved one with dementia or memory loss. That’s why we offer a free Alzheimer’s Support Group for family caregivers in our community.
We welcome siblings and family members to attend the sessions, as it gives everyone a chance to understand the importance of their role in caring for their loved one. There is no charge to attend, and we are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for everyone.
Due to the current public health guidelines, we are providing our services through video and phone conferencing until we are able to resume in-person visits. We take the health and safety of our participants and staff very seriously and remain committed to serving families during this uncertain time.
Our Alzheimer’s Support Group is facilitated by experienced leaders who are specially trained in issues of dementia and aging. We meet on the 2nd Tuesday of each month, and our online Zoom group meets from 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm. If you’d like to join the Zoom meeting, please email Gail at gshaw@stjohnscc.org and she will send you the instructions and invitation.
We also offer an in-person Alzheimer’s Support Group in Collinsville, which is temporarily suspended due to the current public health guidelines. This support group meets in the St. John’s Community Care conference room and offers care for loved ones with a reservation in our Adult Day Program so caregivers can attend the meeting.
If you have any questions or need more information, please call Gail at 618-344-5008 or email gshaw@stjohnscc.org. We are here to support you and your loved ones during this challenging time.
St. John’s Community Care Alzheimer’s Group Facilitator
Gail Shaw, MPADementia
Care Specialist - Coordinator of Training & Support
Gail Shaw: Experienced Professional with Expertise in Aging and Memory Loss
Gail Shaw is an experienced professional with over 25 years of experience working with clients and families facing the challenges of aging and memory loss. Throughout her career, she has worked in various settings as a Health Center Manager, CCP Case Manager, and Nursing Home Administrator, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table.
Gail has worked closely with many family caregivers on how to navigate the issues they face while caring for their loved ones. She facilitates a support group for the Alzheimer’s Association and has given many Dementia Friendly Sessions out in the community.
Gail is an alumni of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) and holds a Bachelor of Science degree where she double majored in psychology and social work. She also received a Master of Public Administration, concentrating on non-profit management, from SIUE.
To stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the area of dementia and Alzheimer’s, Gail regularly attends a variety of training seminars and educational sessions given by the Alzheimer’s Association and researchers from the Charles F. and Joanne Knight Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. She has completed training and is certified as an IDoA Dementia Care Specialist.
If you need help navigating the challenges of aging and memory loss or have questions about the services we offer at St. John’s Community Care, you can reach Gail Shaw at 618-344-5008 or gshaw@stjohnscc.org. She is committed to providing compassionate care and support to those in need and looks forward to assisting you.
