RSVP Presents REST Companion training in Carson City

The Nevada Rural Counties Retired Senior Volunteer Program, also known as RSVP, is presenting the REST Companion training in Carson City. Anyone interested in meeting a crucial need by providing respite — or short-term temporary relief — for caregivers in their community can attend the upcoming REST (Respite Education & Support Tools) training course.

Those who complete the unique, interactive training program become REST Companions who provide short breaks for caregivers, who are caring for individuals with disability or healthcare needs. This allows caregivers to step away to exercise, grocery shop, see a doctor, or attend a support group meeting.

Today, more than 90 million individuals in the U.S. provide care for an elderly parent, a spouse with healthcare needs, or child with disabilities, sometimes without support, according to Caregiving Action Network.

“I encourage all family caregivers and those interesting in learning more about Respite Care to attend this training," said Susan Haas, Executive Director & CEO of RSVP. "The course is a $500 value and offered at no charge compliments of the State of Nevada, Aging and Disability Services Division.

"Continuing Education Units are also available for Nurses and Social Workers ($15 processing fee required). It is a great opportunity to learn more about your caregiving role and to be well prepared to care for those in need. The primary caregivers desperately need regular breaks from their caregiving so that they can return refreshed and able to continue the selfless care of another.”

Mrs. Haas became a certified REST trainer in 2016 and was named “REST Trainer of the Quarter” in September 2016.

To ensure that caregivers feel confident stepping away, the REST program uses a standardized curriculum that is aligned with the National Respite Guidelines, developed by the ARCH (Access to Respite Care and Help) National Resource Center. Training topics include: confidentiality, understanding disabilities across the lifespan, planning and adapting activities and establishing a successful relationship with the caregiver and care recipient.

Evidence supports the effectiveness of the REST program, with participants overwhelmingly responding that the training prepares them to feel confident in providing quality respite to families.

RSVP is the only organization in Nevada that provides caregivers with lifesaving regular breaks utilizing Volunteer Respite Workers (VRW) at no charge in the family’s home. RSVP received funding from the Fund For a Healthy Nevada and State of Nevada Aging and Disability Services Division for the Respite Care Program (much needed regular breaks) to primary caregivers and their adult (age 18 and older) disabled or elderly family members.

The service is provided to support caregivers of those suffering from Autism, Brain Injury, Cancer, Dementia, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s or other intellectual or physical disabilities. Family members or friends that provide respite for the care recipient are also eligible to participate as volunteers. Based upon their care plan and the availability of volunteer resources in the area, caregivers receive essential breaks for four hours a day, two times a week, which enables them to engage in enjoyable activities and attend to their own needs.

Please contact Sandy Severance, RSVP Program Director, at 775-687-4680 x6, or sseverance@nvrsvp.com to register for this free training. Lunch and Materials will be provided at no cost. Visit www.nevadaruralrsvp.org to learn more about RSVP programs and services, or http://restprogram.org/ to learn more about REST.