Treasured Times
The Treasured Times Alzheimer's respite program is currently taking applications for participants. Persons with Alzheimer's or related dementia can take part in our program so that their caregivers can have time for themselves. If you or someone you know is a possible candidate for Treasured Times, contact Barbara Hutson.
The Ministries of Care team is thrilled to publicly introduce our congregation and community to Treasured Times, the Alzheimer's respite program scheduled offers services every Thursday from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. The mission of Treasured Times is to provide respite care to those in the early stages of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) or related dementia in a safe, secure and caring environment, allowing those with the disease to enjoy socialization outside the home and their caregivers to enjoy time to themselves free from worry and responsibility. The program will follow the Plano school calendar, giving those with children in school the opportunity to participate as a volunteer in the program.
Custer Road UMC member Barbara Hutson has been named directors of the program. Barbara will use her nine years of experience working with an adult daycare to provide the best possible environment for our clients. In addition, she will build a team of volunteers, activity coordinators and companions for the program participants.
Treasured Times is modeled after Casa de Vida, a very successful program at NorthPark Presbyterian Church. Their expertise, combined with the support we have from the local Alzheimer's Association, ensures that our volunteers and staff will be fully trained and prepared for the kick-off in September. Ongoing education and training opportunities will allow the program to grow and improve over time.
How can you contribute?
Treasured Times staff is looking for volunteers with a passion to serve others. Each of our clients will be assigned a “Friend,” a volunteer team member who will be their companion for the day. We are actively recruiting Friends at this time who can make a commitment for at least one semester (as change is sometimes confusing to those with Alzheimer's). Clients accepted into the Treasured Times program will be able to toilet themselves and eat without assistance. We will not administer medication or take on other medically related responsibilities, so the Friend is responsible for little more than being a faithful companion each week. In addition, Treasured Times will offer clients reminiscing and memory-enhancing activities, exercise time, games, crafts and music. The program is in need of volunteers for each of these areas, as well as both financial and physical assistance with food services, decorations and various preparations for our opening in September.
Do you find yourself drawn to the new Treasured Times program? Are you administratively gifted and organized? Can you strike up conversations easily with others? Are you skilled in music, games, crafts or other forms of entertainment? Contact Taci Kistler to find out how you can be involved in this wonderful ministry to members of our community who need and deserve the respite we can provide … because all of life's moments should be treasured!
