Caregivers run the equivalent of a marathon everyday.
The constant stress of seeing to the needs of a loved one with Alzheimer’s or a debilitating illness takes a toll.
“Seventy percent of the caregivers die before the person they are caring for,” said Kathy Haviland of Tri-County Senior Outreach Services.
Seeing the need to give those caregivers a break, a group of volunteers in The Villages formed the Day Break Club.
In the Tuesday afternoon program at Odell Recreation Center, about 30-32 volunteers care for 30 individuals who need round-the-clock care.
“Sometimes the caregiver just needs a break,” said Villager and volunteer Sandra Ricciardi. Day Break originated in a Villages living room with a handful of participants.
Now there’s a waiting list.
For those who come to Daybreak, there’s never a dull moment.
The program starts off with the Pledge of Allegiance and what follows is a rapid succession of trivia and memory games, exercise, a snack, karaoke, entertainment and dancing.
“The men love to dance,” said Villager Elaine Midgley, also a volunteer.
Jerry Hasara was active in Easter Seals before coming to The Villages.
When he arrived here, he saw the need for the Day Break Club. He and the other founders of the program worked with the Recreation Department to get it off the ground.
“Sometimes when someone with Alzheimer’s or another condition gets dropped off someplace, they can feel like they are being dumped,” Hasara said. “Here it is like a club. They feel like members and look forward to coming here.”
On Tuesday, Day Breakers celebrated with a crazy hat day. They also enjoyed cake in honor of the 40th birthday of Melissa Johnston who has Down Syndrome.
“We could not do this without our volunteers,” Ricciardi said.
In addition to the volunteers who come to lend a hand, there are those who offer special talents. Bob Knapp of MVP athletic club volunteers to lead exercise. Singer Billie Thatcher comes to perform. The Dynamic Dog Club brings in therapy dogs and the Ukulele Club performs regularly.
