In-Home Respite - The Burden of Care: The Foundation has been under contract with the State of Florida to administer and provide services under “Project R.E.L.I.E.F.” ("Respite for Elders Living in Everyday Families") in home respite program since 1997. On average we are currently serving 90 caregivers/families per month in Brevard County under the program.  Brevard County has one of the largest volunteer networks providing this service in the State. Volunteers receive a stipend for their time and mileage reimbursement when funds are available.

Family caregivers are the “invisible health care workers” who provide care at enormous personal cost.  The caregivers’ physical and mental health decline, family and job responsibilities are neglected and their own financial security becomes non-existent.  Caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients often provide more than 40 hours of care each week.  They can be highly reluctant to seek outside assistance because of the embarrassment to have others see the behavior of their loved one. 

 

Strained caregivers have higher levels of depression and are prone to illness.   Timely caregiver support can extend the ability of families to provide care and delay nursing home admissions. By reducing stress and frustration, respite results in stronger and healthier caregivers that make better decisions for care receivers.

care giving can enjoy peace of mind when they enroll loved ones in the program, which is specifically designed to encompass the capabilities of each client.  Caregivers who place Alzheimer patients in daycare programs have lower levels of care giving-related stress, better attendance at work and better psychological well-being than persons who do not use this service.  Three important needs are addressed through the program: socialization, safety and respite.  Activities modified for the cognitively impaired and a full day of socialization with peers are offered.  Adult daycare can also reduce behavioral problems and prevent excess disability and functional decline. Program objectives include assisting clients in maximizing their existing health and abilities, allowing clients to remain in their homes longer, maintaining health and mental stability and enabling caregivers to function longer in a care giving role.

 

The Foundation’s Adult Day Care Program comprises three facilities in Titusville (North Brevard), Melbourne (Central Brevard) and Micco (South Brevard). All centers operate Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 5:30 pm.

Wanderer's Identification Program

An Identification bracelet or necklace, underwritten by Walgreen's Pharmacy, provides a phone number that is connected to a database of information to facilitate the return of the Alzheimer's patient. Free.

Facility/In-Home Counseling

Care Management, Individual and family counseling are available either at our office or in the client's home. Our counseling team includes Master Social Workers and Mental Health Counselors supervised by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

Training

Conducted by a Public Health Education Specialist, Masters Level. Family trainings consist of three 3-hour blocks. Call for times and location, materials provided. No fee for Family Caregivers. Professionals call for details.

Support Groups

Support groups Available throughout Brevard for caregivers, family and friends of those with dementia. Support groups offer understanding and acceptance, as well as practical information on aging and dementia. Free.

Community Education

Educational Workshops for the caregiver, facilitator, volunteer and professional are provided, A Speaker's Bureau is available to local civic groups, schools and businesses. Information is also disseminated through local public libraries. Brochures and pamphlets pertaining to dementia are available. Free.

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Brevard Alzheimer's Foundation

Overview of Services

Adult Day Care Program: Brevard Alzheimer’s Foundation's Adult Day Care Program provides relief from the constant supervision, companionship, therapeutic and personal care of the dementia patient.  A protective environment in a home-like atmosphere, staffed with caring health professionals and volunteers serves the needs of frail elders and their families with dignity, empathy and respect.  Friends and family who are coping with round-the-clock

For more information call:  321-253-4430

Adult Day Care Program

Project R.E.L.I.E.F.