Williamsburg United Methodist Church

Respite Care

ABOUT US - SCHEDULE & ENROLLMENT - NEWS & EVENTS

FAQ - OUR RESPITE TEAMS - GALLERY - CONTACT US

A gift of time to care partners of dependent seniors;
A gift of companionship and refreshment for their loved ones; since 2001.

Respite Care is a weekday afternoon ministry of Williamsburg United Methodist Church,

open to all faiths & non-faiths.

We provide social engagement and stimulating activities for dependent seniors,

allowing their care partners time to replenish.

ABOUT US

Respite Care provides time off for family members who care for dependent seniors. Family care partners have demanding tasks and often neglect their own health and well-being. Consequently, care partners need time off to relieve stress and prevent burn-out.

Respite Care provides social engagement and stimulating activities for dependent seniors in a safe and secure setting to maximize their cognitive & social abilities. Dependent seniors often feel lonely, bored, and/or helpless. Being with other peers brings psychological and physical benefits. Daily enrichment activities include music, arts & crafts, memory books, exercise, games, educational talks, reminiscing discussions, and a nutritious snack.

Who May Participate?

Only 12 members attend daily, creating a family-like environment. Most participating adults have early to moderate dementia and all members must meet Respite's Acuity Guidelines. All inquiries are welcome. Medications cannot be brought to Respite Care. Participation is open to all faiths and non-faiths.

Who Cares for My Loved One?

The exceptional Staff Team is carefully screened, trained and repeatedly recognized by families for their compassion and enthusiasm. When 12 members are scheduled, 5 staff are present, along with an active group of talented volunteers who help maintain a dynamic program. Our 1:3 staff to member ratio is unparalleled!

To view testimonials about Respite Care, click here.

To view our brochure, click here.

We are a Safe Sanctuaries church. To view our policy, click here.

SCHEDULE & ENROLLMENT

Respite Care is open 11:45 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday thru Friday.

The fee to participate is $60/day, which is billed at the end of the month for the days attended. Respite Tuition payments may be made by check (payable to Respite WUMC) or by credit card/EFT through this website.

To enroll, an interview will be arranged with the care partner and the candidate to ensure appropriateness. An enrollment packet will be provided and the attendance day(s) will be discussed. Complete and return the enrollment packet. A current flu shot, tetanus shot (within the past 10 years) and negative PPD test (within the past 6 months) are required for attendance.

To learn about potential financial assistance or how to make a tax-deductible contribution, please click here.

NEWS & EVENTS

Upcoming Events:

There are no upcoming events at this time.

Caregiver Support:

For information about How to Assemble a Caregiving Team, click here.

Caregiver Support Group (sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association)
Spouse Care Partner Support Group
Bereavement Support Group "Honoring the Journey"
Virginia Family Caregiver Solution Center Website

FAQ

HOW LONG HAS RESPITE BEEN OPERATIONAL AT WILLIAMSBURG UNITED METHODIST CHURCH?

In 2001, Peggy Soulen and Darla Krupski spearheaded the creation of Respite at WUMC. Over the years, Respite has evolved to become a flagship activity program for seniors. Acuity guidelines were developed to clearly define who we can serve to ensure an afternoon of stimulating activities and social engagement.

HOW IS RESPITE STRUCTURED?

Members have designated permanent days they attend weekly, from 1-5 days/week. Many families enjoy an extra day from time to time, when openings are available. When members are unable to attend, there is no charge; however, if absences become routine, number of permanent days may be revisited.

WHAT SETS RESPITE APART FROM OTHER LOCAL ADULT DAY PROGRAMS?

The key distinction is Respite’s unprecedented 1:3 staff to member ratio! Other programs offer a 1:6 ratio or are strictly volunteer driven. Many staff at Respite are retired RNs and LPNs who feel personal fulfillment from caring for seniors in our dynamic, uplifting, family environment.

Our cheery, bright dedicated space with just twelve (12) members daily, fosters personal relationships between members, staff and volunteers. As one member said, “I’m not sure where we all came from, but we are a family!”

There is no minimum number of days you must attend each week, and you are only charged for the days you attend.

IS ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE TO FAMILIES WITH FINANCIAL NEED?

Absolutely! The Peninsula Agency on Aging (PAA) can provide financial assistance based on their sliding scale. In addition, Respite’s scholarship program can help cover costs.

More Questions? We are happy to help!

SUBMIT INQUIRY HERE

our respite teams

Staff Team (left picture)

Respite’s 1:3 staff to member ratio is unparalleled. Our compassionate, skilled team includes RNs, LPNs, and ADC (Activity Director Certified) professionals!

Volunteers (middle picture)

Every day, 2-3 volunteers assist staff with activities and build lasting friendships with members. Other volunteers perform music, bring fresh flowers for arranging, present educational programs, and more. Volunteers pictured attended our Recognition Reception.

Board of Directors (right picture)

Pictured l to r: David Benedict; Carolyn Yowell, Director; Ken Turner; Deacon Francis Roettinger, Vice-Chair; Nancy Ward; Ruth Simpson; Bonnie Knizatko, Chair; Barbara Monteith, Secretary; Jim Goldhammer, Treasurer; Jan Boykin; Rev. Meghan Roth Clayton, Associate Pastor at WUMC; Dawn Michelle; Terry Sweaney. Not pictured: Faith Shartzer, RN