Are you aware of these support groups in Chennai?

Initiated in 2016, the support group was started under the aegis of the Schizopheria Research Founda

Initiated in 2016, the support group was started under the aegis of the Schizopheria Research Foundation (SCARF) for caregivers and family members from the outpatient ward, but is open to the public.The group is yet to resume its physical meetups, but meets virtually once or twice a month for caregivers of those with dementia.

They offer support in terms of improving the caregiver’s basic knowledge about the illness and its progression.

“Getting peer support is helpful for any chronic ailment and over the years we have caregivers taking the lead in hosting meetings and bringing in new caregivers to offer the right kind of help and support,” says Dr Sridhar Vaitheswaran, assistant director and consultant psychiatrist dementia care in SCARF.

This is closed group and members are admitted after the diagnosis of a report is verified.

Contact 7358 588 822

Parivarthan for Parkinson’s Foundation offers a safe platform for members to share information, exchange their experiences on Parkinson’s Disease and involve them in activities to improve their quality of life. Members receive yoga therapy, occupational therapy, counselling and guidance from subject matter experts in dealing with the disorder.

Started in a small way in 2014, the Foundation today has 250 members from Chennai and other parts of the Tamil Nadu. More than 80% of its members are male and aged above 60 years. “Around 50% of these families live alone, with children either living abroad or in other parts of India, so having a community to provide them support is crucial to their well-being,” says Sudha Meiyappan, who started the Foundation.