There are nearly 1,000 individuals in Hancock County who are diagnosed with some form of dementia including Alzheimer's disease. With that statistic in mind, Hancock County Senior Services is launching a new service.
"For those individuals charged with the day-to-day care of a senior loved one with such a diagnosis, Sunny Day Respite offers a place to bring them while they work, run errands or take care of their own needs," said Sally Knabenshue, associate director of programs and services. "They can know that they are receiving the care they deserve."
Sunny Day Respite is the result of a partnership between Hancock County Senior Services and St. Peter's AME Church in Weirton.
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Hancock County Senior Services has entered into an agreement with St. Peter’s AME Church in Weirton to provide congregate respite services for individuals and their family members who have been diagnosed with dementia including Alzheimer’s disease. Attending the lease signing are, seated from left, E. Mark Knabenshue, HCSS executive director; Edna Jones, chair of St. Peter’s board of trustees; Marvin Six, chair of HCSS board of directors; middle row from left, Hattie Mosley, Fannie Gilliam and William Jeter, St. Peter’s trustees; back row from left, William Currenton, St. Peter’s trustee and Ed Huff, HCSS board of directors.
"We had looked at numerous properties in Weirton," said E. Mark Knabenshue, executive director. "They were either too costly or needed extensive renovations which we do not have the funds for. The church came forward and informed us that the parsonage has been vacant for the past few years and the rest is history."
The Congregate Respite site is set to be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Services offered include cognitive games and skill retention exercises, socialization, occupational tasks and assistance with household activities. All activities are provided by direct care workers who have been trained utilizing Alzheimer's Association-approved curriculum.
Services are offered both on a sliding-fee schedule and on a private pay basis. For more information, call Hancock County Senior Services at 304-564-3801.
"There are some renovations to be done before we announce the opening," E. Mark Knabenshue said. "It is my hope that we can have them completed sometime in August. Individuals interested in the program should begin contacting the office now."
Sunny Day Respite is located at 1052 County Road in Weirton.
