Processes and experiences of mutual support in professionally-led support groups for people with early-stage dementia

Abstract

Participation in a support group is increasingly offered to those diagnosed with early-stage dementia; however, empirical data about such groups for this population remain scarce. This study aimed to investigate the mutual support processes that occur in dementia support groups and how members perceive the groups. Eleven individuals from two support groups participated; three sessions of each group were videotaped and semi-structured interviews were conducted with individual members. Quantitative analysis of the videotapes indicated that only a minority of responses were classified as helping behaviours, and that facilitators played a highly active role in the group interactions. The interview data were analysed qualitatively; the themes identified related to aspects of the group that participants found helpful and unhelpful, and their perceptions of how the group operated. The findings have theoretical implications regarding the role of support groups in creating and maintaining social identities, as well as practical implications for how professionals might facilitate these groups.