The RELIEF Program offers in-home respite that is an expansion of respite currently available through other programs, including evening and weekend respite. The purpose of this service is to increase the ability of a family unit to continue to care for a homebound elderly individual by providing in-home respite beyond the basic provisions of current public programs.
Description
The RELIEF Program offers family members and loved ones providing constant care for a frail elder and those stricken with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders a much needed break. Respite care can increase a caregiver’s ability to attend to a homebound elder without becoming ill themselves. Whether it’s shopping, a walk in the park or a night out, you deserve and need time to yourself, free of guilt and free of charge.
Volunteers Needed
A multigenerational corps of volunteers are carefully selected, screened, and individually matched with clients to ensure personalities, skills, interests and abilities are a good fit with the elders and caregivers they will be serving.
By becoming a RELIEF volunteer, you can provide respite to caregivers of frail, home-bound elders. Volunteers are asked to provide companionship for up to four hours at a time, which may include evenings and weekends. Training is provided. Volunteers who qualify may be eligible for a stipend. The stipend is for a period of service and is not an hourly wage. Mileage and expenses may also be reimbursed. If you care about people, RELIEF needs your help in fulfilling the wish of an elderly individual to remain at home throughout their lives.
To learn more about how you can make a difference in your community, and become a RELIEF volunteer, contact the Aging and Disability Resource Center in your county or contact:
Please call the Elder Helpline at 1 (800) 963-5337 for availability and eligibility requirements regarding PSAs, receiving Respite services, etc.
