Circles of Friends – a time to care

Alzheimer’s and dementia can not only rob a loved one of memory, but it also takes a toll on their loved one who is also their caregiver, a sharp contrast from what once was a vibrant individual, now reduced to full time care.

Wimberley Community Center, home base to many volunteer organizations, has one group that relieves the stress of the caregiver for four hours each week. Circles of Friends is not a babysitting service, it is a nurturing environment for each of its friends.

“”Every Thursday from ten to two, it gives the caregiver a break. For four hours, they are entertained and have a lot of fun. Music is the one thing that they don’t forget,” COF coordinator Barbara Owens, said.

But that is not the only activity, there are plenty more with numerous caring volunteers working on a one-to-one basis as with the friends. “They need a single person to talk to…on the average we have eight to twelve (volunteers), “ Owens said.

“When they can’t be handles, we have to stop.” They are able to handle middle stage of dementia and Alzheimer’s stage four and five. But until then, they have a good time.

“At 10:00 a.m., we serve a small drink, do jigsaw puzzles, we do some coloring in an adult coloring book, activities to meet there likes, some just like to visit, some get flustered. We deal with each one as they come.

“At 10:30 on the other side of the room, they introduce themselves. Some can still read, some showing the toll of the disease, we don’t look down on anybody. We exercise, then say pledge, the Star Spangled Banner, they love to sing, and do chair exercises.”

Each week they have a theme, this week American Indians with a story and then each will craft, with volunteer help, a totem pole out of everyday objects glued onto an empty paper towel tube.

They’ll also play card games, simple ones like Uno or King’s Corner, with a volunteer with each client. Then they will have a simple lunch where the clients can talk and visit again. Then it can vary. They could be playing with a big beach ball, or some other physical exercise.

“At 1:00 we play bingo, three games worth. Whoever wins gets the first piece of candy then they pass it around.” They use brain games as filler, we get to them through fun, laughs, we entertain mind through body…physical stimulation and brain stimulation.”

Volunteers from the valley also help by bringing in service dogs, chicken, miniature horses and put them in the parking lot. “It’s a good experience for them.” The clients also love music. Local musicians often play for them, and music is always appreciated. Volunteering as a musician is one way to help those afflicted, because they appreciate it so much.

COF is truly appreciated in the community. “My mother looks forward to this class every Thursday. It is one of the highlights of her week. They always make her feel so welcome and the variety of activities are fun and stimulating without being overwhelming…it is another beacon of light that contribute that contribute to making this community so special,” Marilyn Endres wrote.

Roy McKay letter stated, “My wife’s 4 hours are very helpful to her. Her spirits are always lifted in these sessions and she thoroughly enjoys herself. It is difficult for me to adequately express my appreciation to each and everyone of you,’

But there is also finality to the client’s memory and there comes a time to say goodbye. “Don’t forget, they don’t get better.”

COF understands how difficult it can be for caregivers to do simple things, like grocery shopping. A few hours once a week can be a big help. There is also a support group for them also.

The Wimberley Alzheimer’s Caregiver’s Support Group meets every first Thursday at 1 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church Library. Contact Linda Germain at 512-924-3661.

If you are a musician and would like to volunteer your talents on a regular basis, (once a month or so), please contact the group, or if you would like more information about Circles of Friends at 512-722-3936, or [email protected]