NEW LONDON — On Thursday, March 1, Lake Sunapee Region VNA (LSRVNA) will re-open its Good Day Respite Program located at Kearsarge Community Presbyterian Church (KCPC) in New London with a special Open House.
The community is invited to stop in anytime between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. to meet the staff and learn about the program first-hand.
“We know there is a need for this program in our community,” said Shellie Brown, Director of Community Health Services. “We also know there are sometimes barriers—whether real or perceived—that may prevent people from seeking our help and support. We have been working hard to increase awareness about the benefits of Good Day Respite so that more people will take advantage of this important and very affordable program.”
The cost of Good Day Respite—just $35 per day—includes five hours of service, plus a healthy lunch, snacks and activities. There is a scholarship fund available for those who may need some financial assistance, so, according to Brown, “cost should never be an issue.”
Other barriers often mentioned include caregiver guilt and the belief by caregivers that their loves ones are better off at home. “People don’t always understand that the respite program is as much to give the caregivers a break as it is to provide a stimulating environment for the participants. Caregivers need time for themselves for their own well-being, and people with memory loss need the socialization and stimulation a program like ours offers,” says Brown.
LSRVNA staff can help decide if a person is ready for Good Day Respite or not. Assessments for eligibility will be available at the Open House for those who would like to try it for a day at no cost.
For more information contact Shellie Brown at 526-4077 Extension 228.
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