August 31, 2017
By Paragon News Director Paul Joseph –
Studies show that caregivers give better care, maintain their own health better and have reduced levels of stress if they can get away from care-giving responsibilities once in a while.
SWODA knows how important it is. South Western Oklahoma Development Authority in Burns Flat says it wants caregivers to know they are not alone in their struggle to help loved ones and friends.
According to a news release, many caregivers struggle to provide care on their own, so SWODA is continuing a program that benefits these caregivers in Western and Southwestern Oklahoma. SWODA’s Area Agency on Aging provides respite services for eligible caregivers in partnership with the Department of Human Services.
The program provides a way for caregivers to get out of their routine by using the respite services while the caregiver goes to a doctor’s appointment, barber or beauty shop or just visit their friends at a local coffee shop or a movie.
Caregivers are defined as people of any age caring for someone 60 or older with defined impairments or grandparents 55 or older caring for grand children. Once approved, SWODA provides vouchers in the amount of $500-dollars.
The caregiver can use the money to contract with anyone of their choice to provide the respite time away from their responsibilities that they need.
To apply or find out more information, contact SWODA.
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