Alzheimer's volunteer buddy respite program

Edited by: Lauri Rottmayer
Email: rottmayer@kjrh.com

More than 77,000 Oklahomans suffer from Alzheimer’s Disease. The daily care of a person with Alzheimer's Disease can be challenging and requires many personal sacrifices to ensure a loved one remains safe and comfortable. Caregivers need time off from their caregiving responsibilities to relieve stress and prevent burnout.

To help reduce the stress, the Alzheimer’s Association Oklahoma and Arkansas Chapter is seeking individuals who may be interested in volunteering for a Volunteer Respite Buddy Program. Currently, there are more requests for respite care than volunteers already enrolled in the program.

The Alzheimer’s Association recruits and trains respite volunteers for individuals who are in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. After completing training, each volunteer is carefully matched with a caregiving family. The volunteer spends 2-4 hours with the person with Alzheimer’s or related dementia each week, while the caregiver takes a break. Caregivers tell us it means the world to them to know that someone cares enough to help. Respite volunteers tell us this is one of the most meaningful things they’ve ever done. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a respite volunteer, please call 800-272-3900 and ask for Cathy Sullins or Ruth Drew.

Respite care provides a break for caregivers, time when they can run errands, rest, relieve stress, and attend to their own needs. Caregivers who do not receive support and respite often become sick themselves. Some even die due to the strain. Regular respite is essential and lifesaving.

“Respite care provides a temporary break from daily caregiving responsibilities. Using respite services can support and strengthen the ability to continue taking care of a loved one with Alzheimer's in the home,” said Tonda Ames, vice president of marketing and programs for the Alzheimer’s Association Oklahoma and Arkansas Chapter.

The Alzheimer’s Association is the largest voluntary health organization in.......read all of the Alzheimer's volunteer buddy respite program

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