What exactly is respite?

Trained, temporary care for your person so that you can step away. It can be a few hours a week or a longer block.

I feel guilty asking for help.

That is the most common sentence we hear. Caregivers who get support stay in the role longer and do it better. Asking is part of the job.

An older woman embraces a man, her arms wrapped around his shoulders.

Caregivers

Support for the Caregiver

Family caregivers save the health system billions and are rarely asked how they are doing. We ask.

Call 757-461-9481 Ask a question

What you get

Inside Support for the Caregiver

Respite care
Trained help so you can go to your own doctor, sleep, or simply leave the house.
Caregiver support groups
Monthly groups, in person and online, facilitated by staff who know the terrain.
Training and skills
Practical instruction on transfers, dementia communication, medication and safety.
Counseling and referral
One-to-one conversations, plus connections to legal, financial and mental health help.
Kinship care support
Specific help for grandparents and relatives raising children.

Who it is for

Anyone providing unpaid care to an older adult, including spouses, adult children, grandchildren and neighbours. Grandparents raising grandchildren also qualify for support.

What it costs

Most caregiver support is grant-funded at no cost. Respite may carry a suggested contribution.

Start today

One call reaches every program. Family members can call on someone’s behalf with their permission.

757-461-9481 Download the forms

How it works

What happens after you call

Call, even if you are not sure what you need
Most caregivers call for the person they care for and end up getting help themselves.
Talk it through
A specialist listens to the whole situation, including the parts you feel guilty about.
Build a plan
Respite hours, a group that fits your schedule, training on the specific thing you are struggling with.
Stay connected
Caregiving changes. So does the support you need.