Byrd Alzheimer's Institute

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Support Groups

Support groups provide an excellent forum to learn from others in similar situations. During the session, participants share their experiences, ask questions and offer perspective under the guidance of a trained facilitator. These monthly support groups are hosted at the USF Health Byrd Alzheimer's Center and Research Institute. Confidentiality is highly respected. No external marketing or solicitation is permitted.

The Byrd Center offers three support groups each month.

  • Caregiver support group: This group is for individuals caring for a family member or friend with Alzheimer’s, Lewy Body Dementia, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia or MCI.
  • Patient support group: This group is for individuals with memory problems or those who have recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer's or other dementia.
  • Spanish Support Group: This group is  for individuals caring for a family member or friend with Alzheimer's other dementia. The group is conducted in Spanish.



Support Group: Frequently Asked Questions

When does the groups meet?

The Caregiver Support Group meets the first Thursday of every month from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

The Patient Support Group meets the third Wednesday of the month from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m.

The Spanish Support Group meets the second Tuesday of the month form 4:30-6:00 p.m.

Where does the groups meet?

The support group is held at the Center in the first floor conference room located in the lobby area. Come in the building and check in at the front desk and you will be directed to the room.

Do I need to register in advance?

No, advanced registration is not required. You are free to just show up! 

Is there a fee to attend? 

No, the support group is free for all participants.

Do I need to be a patient at the Byrd Center to go to the support group? 

No, you do not have to be a patient at the Center to attend our support groups.

Where do I park?

There will be reserved parking spaces in the 3rd row of the lot adjacent to our building. There will be signs and orange cones marking the reserved spaces for support group participants.

Can my loved one also attend?

The caregiver support groups are just for the caregivers. Unfortunately, we do not offer respite care for your loved one so arrangements need to be made so the caregiver can attend. The patient support group is primarily for just the person with memory problems. However, spouses do attend if communication issues are a problem for the person with Alzheimer's or memory loss. The group only focuses on issues relevant to the patient.

I have other questions. Who do I call?

If you need additional information, please call Eileen Poiley at (813) 396-0635.

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