Even care givers have cool jargon.  One of our words is “respite.”  We need some time off from 24/7 care giving.

Community programs that provide activities for those in our care help us as much as them – sometimes more.

Our local paper had good coverage of a creative regional program.  This one specializes in outdoor adventure for critically ill kids and injured military veterans – which means respite for their care givers as well.

One church we attended hosted a weekday program for people with Alzheimer’s.  There were activities and lunch for them at the church, but the main goal was to take over their care for the better part of a day so their care givers could have some free time.

Friends and neighbors can make a big difference in the well being of care giving families with creative ideas that allow respite.