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The model follows a set of basic principles and
guidelines in delivering a package of core services. The respite
guidelines include:
- A program that is dementia-specific, serving two populations -- the
dementia clients and their family caregivers;
- Structured group activities designed to provide socialization and cognitive
stimulation, maximizing remaining functional and cognitive skills according to
the needs of individual participants;
- Services provided in groups that range in size from four or five to 15 or
more;
- Professional staff leadership supported by trained aides and volunteers
knowledgeable about dementia and communication, behavior management and group
process;
- Regular hours of operation, with availability of at least one day per week,
four hours per session;
- Comprehensive assessments, care planning, and clearly defined admission and
discharge criteria;
- Appropriate program space including secure, comfortable, home-like
environments and facilities adequate to meet the needs of Alzheimer's client
groups;
- Access to supportive services for family caregivers including individual
and group counseling, information and referral services, and support groups; and
- Education and training programs for family caregivers and community
members.
An array of non-profit and public agencies have established respite programs in
a variety of settings and locations following the above guidelines. While they
offer specific guidance and recommendations, the strength of these guidelines
has come largely from their flexibility, allowing programs to adapt the model to
community needs, available resources and local regulation. Similarly, although
programs limit their enrollment to persons with dementia, they are permitted
broad flexibility to develop program content that is deemed most appropriate for
their participants. While all Brookdale respite programs operate for a minimum
of one day per week, four hours per session, many have expanded by adding days,
hours and/or additional sites. Further, this model encourages agencies in local
communities to develop collaborative relationships with other community-based
agencies in order to provide a comprehensive array of supportive services for
both participants and caregivers. The initiation of these programs often
strengthens the capacity of local service providers to meet the needs of
Alzheimer's families. Moreover, established through seed grants, agencies
leverage significant local financial and in-kind resources to ensure program
continuity.
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