F.A.I.R. – FAMILY ALZHEIMER’S IN HOME RESPITE PROGRAM
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia can be very stressful and caregivers need a regular break from the demands of the job. Often, the person with Alzheimer’s requires constant supervision. The FAIR Program, available in every county of West Virginia, offers relief to family caregivers and, at the same time, provides one-on-one attention and individualized activities for persons with a written diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. This program provides stimulation and socialization for the person with dementia while giving the caregiver a break, offering alternatives that benefit the client as well as the family.
Our trained caregivers offer a variety of stimulation activities for our clients with Alzheimer’s and related dementia. By offering a variety of activities the person enjoyed prior to the diagnosis, life quality and connections can be maintained during the early stages of the disease. We recommend a variety of activities be offered for our clients to determine which may enhance their quality of life at the present time. Some of the activities that may be offered include arts and crafts projects, simple painting, gardening, puzzles, reading, singing, taking short walks, watching a favorite tv program etc. Input from the family member is helpful in determining which activities may be most appropriate for the individual.
FAIR gives caregivers the time to do things most of us take for granted—run errands, keep appointments, visit family and friends, shop for groceries, or even take a nap. Family caregivers can receive up to 16 hours of respite per week, based on need and availability of hours and trained staff.
There is a fee for this program. Participants are expected to provide a cost share of the hourly cost for the service. The fee for FAIR services depends on the income of the person with dementia and their medical expenses. The minimum cost share will be $1.50 per hour of services received by the participant. The is no age requirement to be on the FAIR Program but you must reside in Raleigh County.
For more information you may contact Jessica Dorsey at 304-255-1397 ext 114. Participants must have a medical diagnosis from their primary physician stating they have Alzheimer’s or a related dementia to qualify for this program. Participant must be 18 or older to qualify.
For more information about Alzheimer’s, visit the Alzheimer’s Association Website.
