EAC SENIOR RESPITE PROGRAM 50 Clinton St., Suite 202 Hempstead, NY 11550 (516) 539-0150

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Purpose: The EAC Senior Respite Program provides Nassau County residents caring for frail elderly relatives in their homes with much-needed "time off". Trained volunteers are matched with families and spend time at the home on a regular weekly basis to allow caregivers to shop, keep medical appointments or attend recreational activities without worrying about the well-being of the individual in their care. The EAC Senior Respite Program has been in operation since 1986.

Program Description: Senior Respite recognizes that persons caring for frail elderly family members also need care. Many caregivers know little relief from the ongoing care of loved ones who suffer from Alzheimer's, Parkinson's Disease, dementia or other incapacitating illnesses. By providing families with a Respite volunteer, caregivers can take a short break from caregiving duties, giving them the opportunity to renew their energy and take care of themselves.   Similarly, a visit from someone other than the caregiver often stimulates the frail older adult.

Respite volunteers receive intensive initial and in-service training, and many volunteers develop close, long term relationships with program clients. Respite has shown to be an important support for families, allowing them to maintain their family members at home longer, resulting in significant savings to families and taxpayers. 

The program offers a free in-home nurse’s assessment, an affordable weekly visit from a caring companion; hourly rate falling between $3-8 per hour and is determined by the older adult’s monthly income and ongoing referral and support from a professional staff.