Respite Care Program Provides Caregiver Support

by Doug Ricker, ADS Respite Care Program

I am so appreciative of respite care. The service allows me to do essential shopping, go to medical appointments, and at least once a month meet friends for lunch. I really look forward to seeing my friends! All in all, I think the Respite Care Program has saved my sanity and makes life better. I thank everyone for the program! Family Caregiver

Taking care of someone with a disability is a full-time job. It requires hard work, patience, and good health. And, like any job, it requires time for rest and relaxation.

Aging & Disability Services Respite Care Program gives caregivers a much needed break from their duties. If you have the primary responsibility for caring for a person over the age of 18 and you are not paid for this work, you may qualify to participate in this program.

Substitute caregivers will provide assistance, supervision, and companionship for your loved one. You can be assured that he/she will be safely cared for during your time away.

Whether you need a few hours to go to the doctor, do errands, recover from an illness, or simply rest and relax, we can help you. Our program has several types of respite care available:

• In-home and out-of-home
• Hourly and 24-hour
• Planned and emergency
• Services appropriate to persons with Alzheimer's disease or related illnesses.

The following are some specific services offered by the Respite Care Program:

• Companionship, supervision and meal preparation
• Help with simple activities of daily living (dressing,
  eating, walking, medication reminders, etc.)
• Help with activities of daily living that require
  training (personal care, lifting, turning,
  transferring, etc.)
• Tasks that require a licensed professional
  (Licensed Practical Nurse or Registered Nurse)
• Adult day health services (socialization, nursing
  services, rehabilitation, classes and many
  other activities)
• Short-term nursing home stays

Vashon and Maury Islands
206-463-1829