Pee Dee Mental Health Alzheimer's/Dementia Drop - In Respite Center

1. Pee Dee Mental Health Alzheimer's/Dementia Drop - In Respite Center A safe, caring program for adults affected by Alzheimer’s/Dementia disease and their caregivers

2. MISSION OF THE PROGRAM • The mission of the “PDMHC Alzheimer’s/Dementia Drop – In Center” is to provide services designed to enhance the quality of life and independence of elders in the community and to provide a focal point in the community where services can be easily accessed by elders and their families.

3. Philosophy • Services are diverse and inclusive, promote dignity and well-being, support independence and encourage continued involvement in community life.

4. Accessibility • The PDMHC Drop – In Center is fully accessible. Upon request auxiliary services will be provided to ensure effective communication and participation. • Provide individualized and public information, education, and referrals about diagnosis, treatment, and related services.

5. What is respite? • A short time of rest or relief • A service that allows caregivers to take a break from daily care responsibilities while their loved one receives care from persons who have been specifically trained in caring for those with Alzheimer’s or another irreversible dementia.

6. Why is respite care important? • Respite care helps to keep caregivers strong.

7. How does respite benefit the caregiver? • Respite care provides time for caregivers to: • Spend time with other family members and friends • Relax • Care for themselves

8. How does respite benefit the person being cared for? • Respite care provides time for individuals with Alzheimer’s/Dementia to… • Socialize with others • Participate in enjoyable activities • Be in a safe environment with trained caregivers who can structure activates to meet individual abilities and interests.

9. What is the PDMHC Alzheimer’s/Dementia Drop-In Center • The Center has been established to offer support to persons affected by Alzheimer’s/Dementia and their family caregivers residing the service area (Florence, Lake City, Darlington and Marion)

10. Days of Operation • The Drop-In Respite Center will provide services two days each week for four hours each day. Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

11. Daily Routine • 10:00 Gathering and greeting nametags, sign-in and review of the day’s events/snack • 10:30 Therapeutic Activities sing-a-long, story writing, board games, reminiscing, current events • 11:00 Psychical activity/exercise indoors or outdoors, seated Tai Chi low impact aerobic • 11:45 Lunch Preparation wash hands/tables, restroom, set table • 12:00 Lunch and Cleanup • 12:30 Therapist Realization • 1:00 Projects • 1:30 Prepare to depart • 1:45 Snack • 2:00 Farewells and departure

12. Cost • Cost is a concern for many families as respite care services are usually paid for privately by the person with dementia or family members • Our drop in center is free to the community

13. Who is eligible? • Eligible participants… • Alzheimer’s disease or another irreversible dementia • Able to ambulate per self or with very little assistance • Continent or manageably incontinent • Have a family caregiver