ALZHEIMER'S FAMILY SERVICES
of GREATER BEAUFORT

Alzheimer's Disease is a long and costly illness, lasting anywhere between 2 - 20 years. It places stress on the entire family, not just the Alzheimer's patient. It is our goal to provide immediate support, respite or relief care, and education for Beaufort area families affected by Alzheimer's Disease or another form of memory loss. We offer a variety of programs and services designed to help make your job easier.

You Are Not Alone!

Formerly known as Beaufort Area Caregivers, this organization began in 1988 when a group of concerned caregivers saw the need for respite, education and support. Within the next two years the group incorporated and formed a governing board. Monthly educational programs were held, and Care for the Caregiver Support Group was started. In 1990, United Way funding was received to provide in-home respite for four (4) families.

Since then the program has grown steadily and in Sept. 1999, funding was awarded from the State of South Carolina to begin an Adult Social Day Program for Alzheimer's and dementia patients. The program is therapeutic for the patient and provides extra hours of respite for the caregiver. In January 2000, an Executive Director was hired and the program has been growing rapidly since in order to keep up with growing demands of Beaufort County's retirement population.

Currently, we offer five (5) days of group respite a week for up to 15 participants each day, weekly caregiver support groups, in-home respite care for 25 families; an early stage group for those recently diagnosed; home education and a nurse educator who handles non-emergency medical concerns. Training programs for the community and for medical personnel are also available by special arrangement.

Funding for all programs is raised locally, and all memorial gifts and donations are gratefully accepted.