By KARISSA WINKEL
Cottonwood Extension District
As the population of those 65 and older grows, the proportion of Americans with dementia will rise. Currently, it is estimated that 6.9 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s dementia. Close family and friends tend to provide caregiving services for loved ones with the disease, and it is no easy task. In fact, those caring for a person with dementia provide extensive assistance including personal care, increased supervision, and response to behavioral symptoms.
This is why respite care, or rest for the caregiver, is vital. If you or someone you know could benefit from respite care, look to community resources for assistance.
A Different Mindset Association, located in Hays, Kansas, aims to support caregivers, provide education, network resources, and promote awareness about dementia. The group hosts caregiver support group meetings in person and via Zoom. They also provide a monthly mobile respite care service and a social engagement day program for those with dementia.
Mobile respite, “On the Road Again,” occurs the first Tuesday of every month at the Hays Senior Center. Caregivers have the opportunity to drop loved ones off to enjoy lunch, field trips, community service opportunities, and indoor and outdoor experiences.
“Our Club,” is a day program from 11 am- 3:30 pm on the 3rd Tuesday of the month. Participants can enjoy lunch, art, drama, music, intergenerational activities, community service, and animal friends at the Hays Senior Center.
Through these programs, A Different Mindset Association hopes to relieve caregivers and enrich the lives of those with dementia through social connections, recreation, and a newfound purpose.
Everyone needs a break to rest and recharge. Respite care can provide temporary relief from caregiving, while the person with dementia continues to receive care in a safe environment. Using respite services can strengthen your ability to provide the best care possible.
Visit https://www.adiffmindsetassoc.org/adm/support/ or call 785- 269-1928 to learn more about the services A Different Mindset Association provides.
Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 620-793-1910 or [email protected].