Blue Ridge Respite, formerly the Nelson Enrichment Club, has added a Thursday option to its existing Monday, Wednesday and Friday program, which operates from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Rockfish Presbyterian Church. The program, launched in 2024, is a service of Here to Stay Wintergreen in partnership with Blue Ridge Medical Center and Rockfish Presbyterian.
The program offers social, cultural and movement-based recreation for people with memory loss and Parkinson’s disease, while also giving caregivers a welcome break. Regular activities include music, art, brain games, physical fitness, pet therapy and practical group projects.
A new partner, the Nelson Heritage Center in Arrington, will host the Thursday gathering. The center, located at 1653 Thomas Nelson Highway, offers the same hours as the original program, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Here to Stay Wintergreen founder Gordon Walker said organizers also hope to add Tuesdays in Arrington, potentially providing caregivers with respite opportunities five days a week.
When the service began, Walker said the club was part of a growing movement recognizing that people living with dementia can continue to experience friendship, purpose and enjoyment.
“It’s not always an unrelentingly dark journey forward,” he said.
Walker said the nonprofit follows a model that has been used successfully for more than a decade in Alabama, emphasizing a positive atmosphere, camaraderie and opportunities for members to contribute to the well-being of the group. At Blue Ridge Respite, many participants consider themselves volunteers who help fellow members.
Innovation is increasingly important as the population ages. A recent poll by University of Michigan researchers found that many adults older than 50 provide care for family members or friends, often while balancing multiple caregiving responsibilities. Many also care for people with dementia, a role that can carry significant emotional and physical challenges.
Although respite programs cannot cure disease or eliminate all caregiver stress, they can help delay the need for residential care, potentially reducing both family and public health care costs.
Discussions about caregiving sometimes overlook the emotional experiences of those receiving care. Many people with memory loss recognize the changes they are experiencing and worry about becoming a burden to loved ones. Being around others facing similar challenges can provide reassurance and a sense of belonging.
At both locations, the gatherings remain social rather than medical. Walker said no medications are administered, but caregivers may send medications with members, who can then be reminded to take them. Meals and snacks are provided, and members with special dietary needs may bring their own lunches. Participants must be ambulatory, with or without assistive devices, and able to use the restroom independently.
Several months ago, the program welcomed a couple of Crozet residents, and volunteers now provide transportation from Crozet to the program.
More information, along with applications for members and volunteers, is available at blueridgerespite.org or by calling 434-373-7829.
