Sometimes it helps to talk about our problems. WISE & Healthy Aging encourages such conversation in a variety of support groups for those age 50 and older.
The groups are held in confidential, safe group settings and focus on issues ranging from bereavement, men’s issues, women’s issues and caregiver concerns. The support groups offered include:
• Collecting to Cluttering Group
• Bereavement Support Group
• Complimentary Caregiver Support Groups and Educational Seminars
• Peer Counseling Groups
Collecting to Cluttering Support Group on Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. helps those who want to change their home environment but feel overwhelmed. Ongoing group to help process one’s emotional ties to the items collected and move forward to create a better living space.
The Bereavement Support Group on Tuesdays from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. offers an opportunity to join with others who are struggling with the loss of a loved one. Through sharing and the support of each other, one can begin to develop strategies to cope with the hard days. A professional psychotherapist facilitates the group. Fee based on ability to pay.
The Adult Day Service Center at WISE & Healthy Aging provides emotional support, information, and referral to community resources for those caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, or stroke. Enrollment requires initial phone consultation with group facilitator. Staff provides complimentary companion sitting for your loved one during the meeting. Groups meet on the first and third Thursday of every month, 10:30 a.m. to noon; or second and fourth Tuesday of every month from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
All peer counseling support groups are facilitated by peer counselors and supervised by a licensed mental health professional. The “Transitions” group is for those who have reached a crossroad in their life, and meets on Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
The “Women’s Circle” group gives women an opportunity to share their experiences and financial concerns in a safe, confidential environment. Explores practical and emotional aspects of maintaining one’s financial well-being. The group meets on the first Tuesday of each month, 10 a.m. to noon. “Expanding Your Horizons” support group meets Mondays from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Men’s Support Groups meet in confidential and trusting environments in which men can talk about personal issues in their lives. The groups meet on Mondays from 10:30 a.m. to noon, or on Thursdays from 11:15 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.
WISE & Healthy Aging support groups meet at 1527 4th St., Santa Monica 90401. For more information or to sign up for a group, call 310.394.9871 or visit www.wiseandhealthyaging.org.
WISE & Healthy Aging is a nonprofit, social services organization.
