An in-home respite program for Alzheimer families

Abstract

Family caregivers of those with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementias desire affordable, in-home respite care both to relieve their perceived burden and to reinforce satisfactions associated with caring for a close relative. Caregivers also want paid helpers who are specially trained and effective in dealing with the wide range of symptoms manifested by those who have irreversible dementia. These needs have been addressed on a local level by the Chicago Area Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association in the form of the Alzheimer's Respite Training and Registry program. This paper describes the program's rationale, philosophy, training of aides, linkage with caregivers, administration, and future directions.