Being a caregiver isn’t easy.
When a loved one has Alzheimer’s or dementia – whether it’s an aunt or a husband or a beloved sibling – they need care and attention 24 hours a day.
“Caregivers need some time to themselves,” said Diana Walters, member of Falling Water Cumberland Presbyterian Church on Old Dayton Pike.
That’s why she teamed up with her church and Pastor Jim Barry to begin a new ElderCaring ministry, a respite for those who provide care to those who cannot care for themselves.
Every first and third Tuesday of the month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the church opens its doors to those with dementia so that their caregivers can have a few hours to rest, run errands, or just get some much-needed time to themselves.
And they offer this service for free as a gift to the community.
“The population of people with Alzheimer’s especially and dementia is growing astronomically,” said Walters. “Even though you love someone … it can wear on you. There’s a need for people to have a break and not to worry.”
Walters acts as director of the program and has a doctorate in gerontological studies as well as 20-plus years of experience working with seniors in an assisted living facility.
She trains church members to volunteer during the ElderCaring days, which include a hearty lunch, devotionals, group singing, games, exercise and more.
While it’s a great opportunity for the caregiver to get out on their own, it’s also beneficial for those they are caring for, said Walters.
“We do everything on the participants’ time schedule; we gear everything toward [them],” she said. “This gives them a place to socialize with people who understand.”
The service is open to the entire community. Because the program isn’t licensed, it can only accept up to nine participants, Walters said, but there are currently openings.
Participants must go through a registration process by calling Walters at 987-7443 or emailing her at DianaLWalters@comcast.net.
Falling Water Cumberland Presbyterian is located at 6534 Old Dayton Pike. To find out more about Walters and her work, visit alzheimersministry.org.