GULF SHORES, Ala. — A community adult respite program has begun in Gulf Shores. It is available to older adults every Monday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in room 109, South Campus of the Gulf Shores United Methodist Church.

Respite programs provide the caregiver with short term relief from the unrelenting demands of care giving. It helps to sustain family caregivers by providing time out to go to the doctor, get a haircut, grocery shop, attend support groups, visit with friends and other family members, and maintain contact with the outside world.

Respite programs can give caregivers the relief needed to be able to continue to care for their loved one.

Day Break Respite Care will provide a safe, loving environment where an adult is encouraged to participate in art and craft projects, playing games, singing and social interaction.

Participants will be interviewed to determine individual care requirements and to evaluate health conditions that might impact ability to successfully participate in the program.

Day Break is a community outreach ministry of Gulf Shores United Church Servant Ministries and is available to all. Staffing for the respite care program will be provided by a staff director and trained volunteers who are certified to participate in a Safe Sanctuaries program.

The program is not designed to provide medical or counseling services but to provide support for the caregivers and their loved ones.

All participants must be pre-registered. Please contact Amelia Fletcher (Director of Servant Ministries) at 251-968-2549, 251-968-2411 or e-mail amelia@gulfshoresumc.org to arrange an appointment with the program director Dolly Crewe.

The cost of the day care is $40 per visit which includes lunch provided by Meals on Wheels with special consideration made for dietary restrictions.