COEUR d'ALENE - Families experiencing early-stage Alzheimer's disease will have opportunities in 2015 to enjoy social events and learn more about living with the disease through programs and sessions provided by the Alzheimer's Association Inland Northwest Chapter.

The Early Stage Social Engagement Program begins with a breakfast at 9:30 a.m. Jan. 9 in Java on Sherman, located at 819 Sherman Ave. The group will be meeting twice monthly to participate in social activities together with those who have been recently diagnosed with AD or dementia. Activities may include nature hikes, museum tours, bowling, ball games or painting classes.

"Many times, once families get the diagnosis, their friends of many years seem to fall away for various reasons," said PJ Christo, outreach coordinator of the Inland Northwest Chapter. She added that these afflictions can be difficult for friends and family members to face "when things are up close and personal" and sometimes patients become unable to do the things that originally brought them together with their loved ones.

"The diagnosis of Alzheimer's or dementia can be very, very isolating," Christo said "This group is somewhat the answer for that."

This group was established last January and is always open for new families to join.

The Early Stage Support Group begins with its first meeting from 4:30-6 p.m. Jan. 12 in the Garden Plaza of Post Falls, located at 545 N. Garden Plaza Court. Two counselors will be present to facilitate. This group is designed to provide educational, emotional and social support for caregivers as well as patients. It will help participants develop skills and strategies for solving problems and provide them with encouragement, moral support and a safe place to share thoughts and new feelings derived from the diagnosis.

Reservations and pre-screenings are both mandatory for the support group.

To learn more about the Early Stage Engagement Program or the Early Stage Support Group, contact Christo at 666-2996.

Info: www.alz.org.