Alzheimer’s / Dementia Care Programs Return to Johns Island

Press Release

Families caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia or memory loss will soon have access to affordable, therapeutic half-day care on Johns Island. 

Respite Care Charleston (RCC), a 501c3 nonprofit organization, will resume respite care at St. John’s Parish Church on Thursday, November 4th following a 19-month closure due to the pandemic. The program will be offered on Mondays and Thursdays, from 10 am to 1:45 pm, with new safeguards in place to protect the vulnerable population served.

As many as 10,000 Charleston County residents have some form of dementia, like Alzheimer’s disease, with 78% living at home or with family. Respite is one of the services requested most by dementia caregivers and has proven to improve quality of life and prolong aging in place.

The only program of its kind serving Charleston Co., RCC’s non-medical respite program gives dementia caregivers a break while offering their loved ones safe and stimulating activities designed for those with memory loss and other cognitive impairment.  For 3.75 hours, caregivers can safely leave their loved ones in the care of RCC’s professional staff while they attend medical appointments, run errands, spend time with friends or engage in other self-care activities.  While at the program, participants participate in socialization; reminiscing; puzzles, trivia and other brain games; light physical activities; music, art and pet therapy; and other dementia-friendly activities.

According to one caregiver served by RCC, “This small break allows me to feel mom is safe while I can recharge a little.  The program is wonderful for her… it’s the first time I’ve seen her happy in a long time!”

RCC serves individuals from 49 to 102 years of age, across all stages of dementia, with additional respite programs in James Island, Mt. Pleasant and West Ashley. Scholarships are available for those with limited income.  Additional RCC services include facilitated support groups, one-on-one caregiver consultations, and education and outreach.  For additional information or to schedule a visit, call 843-647-7405 or visit www.RespiteCareCharleston.org.

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