Respite Companion Program

Are you taking care of a parent, spouse or elderly family member?

Respite Companion care provides help that can relieve your stress and take some of the difficulty out of caring for a loved one.  The Respite Companion Program helps families care for their elder loved ones and provides peace of mind and respite for the caregiver.

Care for Caregivers

Research published in the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) indicated that the majority of caregivers have health problems related to the task of care-giving. Recent research examined caregivers and the effects of cortisol, the stress hormone, which builds up over time, reducing the immunity of the caregivers, and may make them more susceptible to illness. Caregivers can feel overwhelmed trying to manage their life, and manage the care for a loved one.

Respite Companions

Many caregivers need outside help and are confused at the options. The Council on Aging has a staff of compassionate, experienced Respite Companions who are capable of caring for individuals with dementia, Alzheimer's, or other health conditions. Respite Companions will come to the home and prepare light meals, help with shopping lists and be a dependable friend to your loved one. The Respite Companions also provide transportation for errands and appointments. They are available to work many different shifts to fill in for the time that you need them.

The Respite Companion program, through the Billerica Council on Aging, is exclusive to Billerica residents. For more information, please contact us at 978-671-0916.