Respite Opportunities

Intergenerational Respite Care Program

Through the Intergenerational Respite Care Program (IRCP), VPAS matches pairs of local college students with families caring for an adult age 60 or older in Harrisonburg, Rockingham, Augusta County, and Staunton.  IRCP takes place at Bridgewater College and at James Madison University where it is known as the Caregivers Community Network (CCN). Enrolled students provide weekly visits to offer social interaction and cognitive stimulation with the care recipient while the caregiver takes a much needed break. Students in these programs complete training and coursework on best practices that encourage positive rapport with older adults, particularly those who are homebound and who live with cognitive impairments. 

If you wish to apply please fill out the family application and sent to to Caregiver Outreach Coordinator Kathy Guisewite via e-mail or mail it to VPAS, 975 South High Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801

 

Respite Vouchers

Respite Vouchers are available to full time family caregivers that are in need of short breaks from their caregiving duties. Caregivers must apply for the service and also must participate in other required VPAS programs. Contact your local office to inquire.

 

Resources to Locate Private Caregivers

All VPAS locations maintain a list of private caregivers that can be shared with families in need of respite care. This information is shared with VPAS by persons interested in doing this sort of work, independent of a home health care agency. Services they provide might include assistance with bathing, ambulation, shopping, light housekeeping and more. VPAS does NOT conduct any background or reference checks, but rather just supplies contact information so that families can reach out and make their own choices. Contact your local office to inquire.