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KSMU is dedicated to broadcasting critically important information as our community experiences the COVID-19 pandemic. Below, you'll find our ongoing coverage.

Alzheimer's Caregiver Support Group Leaders Connect With Members Online And Over The Phone

Michele Skalicky

Many people taking care of loved ones with Alzheimer’s have a lifeline that they’ve come to rely on: Caregiver support groups. But those meetings have been canceled due to the coronavirus.

Even though they can't meet in person, some group leaders are staying connected with members in other ways, including meeting online. Mark Applegate leads an Alzheimer’s Association support group in Springfield. He said caregivers still need support during this time.

"My group's still really new, so I haven't heard much from them," he said.  "The more mature group that's been around for many years, the one in Willard, and there's several of them around here that have been around for years, I'm certainly getting many calls.

Applegate’s support group will meet via Zoom April 21 at 6 p.m. For more information, call him at (417) 955-2513.

The caregiver’s support group that usually meets in Willard at First Baptist Church will meet online Tuesday night, April 7, at 6. For more information, call Carol Bourbina at (417) 742-3071.

Other groups are planning to go online or are offering phone-based support during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Alzheimer’s 24/7 helpline is 1-800-272-3900.

Find a list of caregiver support groups and contact information here.  

Michele Skalicky has worked at KSMU since the station occupied the old white house at National and Grand. She enjoys working on both the announcing side and in news and has been the recipient of statewide and national awards for news reporting. She likes to tell stories that make a difference. Michele enjoys outdoor activities, including hiking, camping and leisurely kayaking.