Vol. 6, No. 1 Jan/Feb 1998	Previous Issues Subscribe to AT Messenger Download PDF Viewer
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HELPING HANDS

The Christiana Care Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) is pleased to announce the introduction of HELPING HANDS, a new respite service. Made possible by a grant from Delaware Health and Social Services, Division of Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities, this program will provide an occasional break for caregivers of persons living with physical disabilities.

Respite care has been identified as an essential community service by many families, and service providers. Respite care provides caregivers with planned time off to attend to personal business, to spend time with other family members or to allow for a much needed break from the demands of continuously caring for their loved one. Respite care can reduce the stress and exhaustion experienced by the caregiver and can reduce the likelihood of earlier institutionalization of the client as a result of caregiver “burnout.”

HELPING HANDS provides respite care to eligible families throughout the state of Delaware in two settings—clients’ homes and extended care facilities. To participate in this program, individuals must be caregivers for persons living with physical disabilities between the ages of 18 and 59. If you have any questions regarding the HELPING HANDS program, please feel free to call Jim Daliege, Assistant Director to Supportive Services, at 302-323-8692.

Individuals who might be interested in utilizing this service should call VNA at 1-888-VNA-0001 (888-862-0001) to find out if they qualify to participate.