Caregiver Volunteer Respite Squad
Respite Care Services for Caregivers
The Age Well Respite Squad is made up of our dedicated volunteers who provide invaluable relief for caregivers. Trained Respite Squad Volunteers provide personalized assistance to clients experiencing cognitive decline, dementia, or other conditions that require full-time supervision. This respite is crucial, enabling caregivers to run errands, socialize, attend medical appointments, and more, all while knowing their loved ones are receiving quality care in a safe environment. By prioritizing caregiver well-being, we enhance the quality of care for those in need. All services are offered to caregivers at no cost.
Become a Respite Care Volunteer
We are actively seeking compassionate volunteers to provide ongoing respite support to families! Our goal is to foster meaningful relationships that offer stability for both caregivers and the individuals they assist. If you want to make a difference in the life of an older adult, now is the perfect time to get involved. This training specifically prepares you to serve individuals experiencing cognitive decline, dementia, or other conditions that require full-time supervision. Additionally, this training offers the opportunity to connect with many amazing, like-minded individuals.
We invite you to learn more about the Volunteer Respite Squad by contacting our team at: [email protected] or call 1-802-662-5249.
Respite Care Volunteer Training
Our training program runs for four weeks, with one session each week. Volunteers learn about effective communication, setting boundaries, and safety, along with important topics like dementia, family dynamics, and the grieving process. This training boosts confidence and prepares volunteers with the skills they need to provide the best possible support to caregivers and those in their care.
Once volunteers complete their training, they’re matched with an older Vermonter and their caregiver for regular visits, committing to at least one three-hour visit each week. These visits give caregivers the much-needed time to focus on themselves while knowing their loved ones are in good hands. The Age Well Volunteer Department is here to offer support, encouragement, and assistance every step of the way. To ensure the best care, volunteer visits are scheduled Monday through Friday, between 8 AM and 4 PM.
Ongoing Need for Respite and Caregiver Support
Age Well works with service providers statewide, including Vermont’s other Area Agencies on Aging to strategize and coordinate the best way to provide respite services to the people of Vermont. Age Well has also joined a National Caregiver Collaborative and presented on our Respite Squad Program to professional organizations across the country, allowing us to form valuable connections while learning best practices in providing services to caregivers. With state and national connections, we share our experiences and successes to continue to build this valuable resource for Vermont.
The Impact of Respite Volunteers to Date:
The number of caregivers who have benefited from our Respite Volunteers is a testament to our commitment to supporting families. Through this program, we have assisted hundreds of caregivers, while ensuring their loved ones receive quality care. Our dedicated volunteers are key to making this possible, offering essential support and companionship.
Together, we are making a positive impact on the lives of caregivers and their families.
If you are interested in learning about the Age Well Respite Squad or becoming a
volunteer, please contact our Volunteer Department at: 1-802-662-5249 or our Helpline: 1-800-642-5119.
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FAQ’s
Do you have a question about the Caregiver Volunteer Respite Squad that wasn’t answered here? Contact the Helpline with any additional questions!
A Caregiver is someone who provides care and support to individuals who may need assistance due to age, illness, disability, or other challenges. Take this quiz, created by John Hopkins, to learn more about caregiving and to find out if you are a caregiver.
Our training program runs for four weeks, with one session each week. After completing training, volunteers are paired with an older Vermonter and their caregiver for regular visits, committing to at least one three-hour visit each week. To maintain quality care, volunteer hours are scheduled from Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM.
All Volunteers must pass Age Well’s background screening process, attend orientation and complete an interview.
Age Well’s Respite Volunteer Training equips individuals with the essential skills and knowledge to effectively support caregivers and those they assist. Participants delve into the unique challenges caregivers face, learn effective communication techniques, and discover best practices for delivering compassionate care. With hands-on experiences and guidance from experienced professionals, volunteers gain confidence in their ability to make a positive impact, fostering a supportive community for older adults and caregivers. Thank you for considering this rewarding opportunity to truly transform lives!
There are numerous ways to share your time with those who need it most across Addison, Chittenden, Franklin, and Grand Isle counties. Volunteer opportunities are available Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Whether it’s veterans visiting fellow veterans, providing transportation, or assisting with grocery shopping, you can make a meaningful impact by volunteering with Age Well. For a full list of volunteer opportunities, please visit our Volunteer page.
Contact Us
Do you have questions about the Caregiver Volunteer Respite Squad? Call Age Well Volunteer Services at 1-802-662-5249 and speak to one of our friendly team members.