Respite Care

Our respite care program provides funding for families who are primary caregivers to individuals with an ABI and to families who are experiencing the critical care stages of ABI. The program is funded through the YURI MUTIGER MEMORIAL RESPITE CARE FUND. This fund was established by Yuri's family and friends. Initial contributions came from the annual GOLF4YURI TOURNAMENT. The program provides services to families who are primary caregivers to individuals with an ABI. Families can apply for limited respite care hours to be supported through this fund.

TARGET POPULATION

Family members who provide continuous care to an individual living with the effects of an acquired brain injury or family members who are experiencing the initial effects of having a loved one diagnosed with an acquired brain injury.

Guidelines:

BIAPH believes that Respite should be:

• Available to all families and caregivers providing ongoing care.
• Accessible when, how and where it is needed.
• Available not only in a structured and planned fashion but also in emergency situations.

BIAPH will ensure that:

• Families have an array of options and can choose respite services that meet their unique needs.
• Providers are available to meet family needs.
• Families and Professionals are aware of our program and know how to access it.

PROGRAM SERVICES

The Respite Care Program provides relief to families and primary caregivers of individuals with acquired brain injuries. Services offered by our Respite Care Program include but may not be limited to:

• Attendant Care
• Nursing
• Community Social Support
• Indoor/Outdoor Homemaking

PROGRAM PROCEDURES

I. Application Process: a. Applications for service can come from the survivor, family members or professionals. b. Once received a member of the Respite Care Committee will review the application and conduct a telephone screening interview. c. Once the screening interview is complete an e-mail will go out to the Respite Care Committee with recommendations for service provision. d. Once recommendations are agreed upon an e-mail will go out to relevant service providers. II. Letters of Agreements: a. A letter of agreement will be sent to families who receive respite services. b. A letter of agreement will also be sent to the service provider. III. Annual Review Process: Participants will be part of an annual review process to re-evaluate the level of service required and to ensure appropriate assistance is being provided. An annual review form will be sent to each participant. To continue service without interruption the completed form is required within 4 weeks. A letter of agreement will be sent to both the participant and service provider notifying them on ongoing service agreements.

MINIMUM CRITERIA FOR SERVICE:

Individuals receiving Respite Care from BIAPH are:

1. Experiencing the critical care stages of a loved one with an acquired brain injury.
2. Caring for an individual with an acquired brain injury.
3. Providing continuous care.

SERVICE PROVISION:

1. Respite will be provided for a 12 month period. The date on the Letter of Agreement will mark the start date for funding.
2. Funds allocated will depend on family/client need.
3. Once funds are allocated and a service provider is determined, families will direct their own care. Hours of service will be determined between the family and service provider.

THE RESPITE CARE COMMITTEE:

The Respite Care Committee is comprised of volunteer Service Providers, survivor(s) and or caregivers, professionals and minimally one member of the Board of Directors. The Committee reports to the Board of Directors of the Brain Injury Association of Peel and Halton.

BIAPH RECOGNIZES contributions from the YURI MUTIGER MEMORIAL FUND.

Yuri sustained a severe brain injury in July 2000 as a result of a motor vehicle accident.

At the time of his accident Yuri was a vibrant 20 year old man with a large circle of friends. Yuri passed away in May 2003 after a difficult struggle as he tried to come to terms with the devastating effects of his brain injury.

The YURI MUTIGER MEMORIAL FUND was established in his memory by Yuri’s family and friends via an annual GOLF4YURI TOURNAMENT. These funds were and continue to be generously donated by Yuri’s family and friends to BIAPH and mandated for the Respite Care Program.

BIAPH and our community offer sincere thanks to those who spend so much time and contribute so generously to this fund.