Caregivers can take a break and get information, help

© St. Petersburg Times,
published November 7, 2001

For people caring for a demented person at home, getting a few hours' break can provide the physical and emotional nourishment necessary to get through the week.

Going shopping, taking a nap, reading a book while someone else takes care of your loved one can be a godsend -- and it need not cost a dime.

Several community resources provide such "respite" for caregivers, sometimes for free. A new federal program designed to keep people out of nursing homes soon will augment existing programs.

To spread the word about respite care, support groups and other services for caregivers, the Alzheimer's Association of Tampa Bay and Gulf Cost Community Care are offering four free seminars this month.

Underwritten by the Area Agency on Aging and Florida's Department of Elder Affairs, the seminars include free food and entertainment. Trained workers on-site will watch over loved ones while their caregivers attend the seminar. Transportation will be provided for anyone who needs it.

To arrange for transportation or respite care during the seminar, call Gulf Coast at 538-7460 or the Alzheimer's Association toll-free at 1-800-772-8672.

Here are the seminar times and locations:

Today, 1-4 p.m., Balmoral Assisted Living, 2960 Tampa Road, Palm Harbor.

Friday, 6-9 p.m., Asian Neighborhood Center, 1801 62nd Ave. N, St. Petersburg.

Nov. 14, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Fountains of Boca Ciega Bay, 1255 Pasadena Ave., South Pasadena.

Nov. 17, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Roskamp Auditorium, Freedom Square, 7800 Liberty Lane, Seminole.

© 2006 • All Rights Reserved • St. Petersburg Times
490 First Avenue South • St. Petersburg, FL 33701 • 727-893-8111

Contact the Times | Privacy Policy
Standard of Accuracy | Terms, Conditions & Copyright