Anatomy of the Alzheimer's Respite Care Program (ARCP)

Abstract

The Alzheimer's Respite Care Program is an innovative project designed to serve caregivers of Alzheimer's clients. This unique model offers both in-home and institutionally based respite care. Two community organizations which offer Adult Day Care respite forged a partnership to coordinate and expand their continuum of care, bringing many of the benefits of a day care setting into the home. This paper compares the original project conceptualization with its current design today. Factors affecting this evolution are explored together with program modifications incorporated to more appropriately respond to local needs. Key marketing strategies are discussed coupled with a presentation of program successes and recommendations for the future.

Barriers and enablers in the use of respite interventions by caregivers of people with dementia: an integrative review

“…Lack of knowledge of the network linked with respite (e.g. services, conditions for admission, and caregivers’ degree of involvement) and the difficulties in accessing accurate information have been identified as barriers to the use of respite [ 42 , 44 , 46 , 50 , 53 , 70 – 72 ]. The existence of explanatory training regarding respite (e.g.…”

“…Moreover, a marketing strategy (e.g. multisite communication, brochures, journal publications, radio, local television outlets, visits to the facilities, newsletters, and advertising in the language common to the various areas) were identified as positive elements [ 53 , 70 ], as they allow the information to reach a wide audience. Despite access to information and good communication, the effectiveness of respite time will be influenced by the attributes of respite care [ 74 ].…”

“…Geographical access, administrative factors, staff, and the benefits provided by the services were important attributes influencing the use of respite. Living in a large urban area, being geographically removed from a respite service, or having a limited number of expert nursing care facilities were barriers [ 42 , 66 , 70 ]. By contrast, living in a rural area was a favorable factor [ 39 ].…”

“…By contrast, living in a rural area was a favorable factor [ 39 ]. At the administrative level, access to interventions was considered too complex and non-systematic, and it was also limited by the financial aspect (income, social security) [ 42 , 70 ]. The centralization of administrative procedures makes it easier to access complicated respite interventions [ 37 , 44 , 53 , 57 , 70 – 72 , 75 ].…”

“…At the administrative level, access to interventions was considered too complex and non-systematic, and it was also limited by the financial aspect (income, social security) [ 42 , 70 ]. The centralization of administrative procedures makes it easier to access complicated respite interventions [ 37 , 44 , 53 , 57 , 70 – 72 , 75 ]. Furthermore, being covered by the social security system and having adequate finances promote the use of respite [ 40 , 66 ].…”