Luis Valdivieso and Susan Miller, two volunteers mentioned in the accompanying story, say providing respite care has been a worthwhile experience. I feel blessed. It's very satisfying to know that I can be useful. But it's not overwhelming, because I'm only in the house a few hours. People needing respite care should call the above number or Elder Care Services at 921-5554.
Elder Care can also provide some additional services, such as bathing and grooming.
Both agencies may have waiting lists. Alzheimer's patients are also invited, but meet in a separate room. Call the Alzheimer's Project for more information. Giving up favorite pastimes. The demands of caregiving do take time away from hobbies, but if you cut them out entirely, that's a problem.