Outreach center helps families cope

ALBANY, Ga. — When a loved one is stricken by dementia, it is not just the patients who are impacted by the disease — but also the family members giving them constant care.

Sometimes all that is needed to cope is a break.

The Alzheimer’s Outreach Center, started in 1988 through a mission of a group of churches in downtown Albany — among other services — offers a program known as Alzheimer’s Caregiver Time Out (ACTO), which now functions as the center’s day care program.

The day care program, officials say, not only provides a break to the caregivers but also gives their loved ones stimulation that ultimately promotes socialization and alleviates isolation.

Some of the activities generally offered include music, arts and crafts, games, exercise, reminiscence therapy and pet therapy.

“It keeps them (dementia patients) as socially engaged as possible,” said Virginia Griffin, the center’s director. “We offer a social setting and try to keep them active.

“Otherwise, they will sit at home and take a nap and not sleep at night, meaning the caregiver is up all night.”

The center is located at 314 N. Jefferson St., the site of a former service station that was once known as Albany Outreach Center. In addition to the adult day care service, the center also offers an Alzheimer’s support group as well as in-home respite care.

There are nine staff members at the center, three of whom work out in the field, Griffin said.

While the day care service is not a medical model, there is a nurse on staff to help keep an eye on whatever issues may arise.

“Most of these people are 70-90 years of age,” Griffin said. “Rarely is Alzheimer’s the only disease they are dealing with. We don’t do medical care, but we do catch these things and bring it to the family’s attention.”

The day care program is offered from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday, while the in-home respite care is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The day care meals are provided by Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, allowing the staff at the center to accommodate special dietary needs, Griffin said. Followed by the first activity and lunch, participants are taken into the recreational area for a music program.

Then there