Support groups are valuable resources for older adults seeking connection, support, and personal growth, promoting emotional and social well-being. They provide a safe space to share feelings and experiences, especially during life transitions like retirement, loss, or health issues. These groups help combat social isolation, connect participants with peers facing similar challenges, and offer opportunities to form new friendships. They also provide information on managing health, caregiving, and services, empowering informed decisions. Support groups help reduce depression and anxiety, improve mental health, and develop coping strategies for managing grief, illness, and life changes, enhancing overall quality of life. Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS) will be offering several support groups this winter, including:
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP (Begins Wednesday, January 15, 2025)
Sponsored by Samaritan Life-Enhancing Care
Caring for a loved one is both challenging and rewarding – but too many caregivers forego caring for their own needs. Our Caregivers Support Group provides a compassionate space for participants to share their experiences, find support, and learn about community resources. Advance registration required. To learn more or RSVP, contact Reva Farenback-Brateman at rfbrateman@jfedsnj.org.
GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP (Begins Tuesday, January 21, 2025)
Sponsored by LifeForce Caregivers for the Elderly
Intended for individuals 60 and over who are mourning the death of a spouse or life partner in the past year. This group provides a safe and supportive space for members to share a myriad of emotions and discuss ways of integrating the loss as they rebuild their lives. To learn more or RSVP, contact Reva Farenback-Brateman at rfbrateman@jfedsnj.org.
LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP (Begins Thursday, February 20, 2025)
Our low vision educational and support group is designed for individuals who are coping with visual impairment, including macular degeneration and other eye diseases. Participants will get support, gain valuable resources, and hear from expert presenters in this group. New session forming for early 2025. To learn more, please contact Liane Friedberg at lfriedberg@jfedsnj.org.
PARENTAL BEREAVEMENT GROUP (New session forming in early 2025)
JFCS knows that grief doesn’t end with Shiva. Participants are able to share emotions and help each other on the path to healing, in a warm, kind atmosphere. To learn more, please contact Rebecca Rosenau at rrosenau@jfedsnj.org.
Grant funding for all JFCS support groups is provided by the Raymond & Gertrude R. Saltzman Foundation. To see all of our support group offerings, please click HERE.
