Aging Services News
Healthy Meals, Happy Caregivers
Montana's Lifespan Respite Food Box Program
The Montana Lifespan Respite Coalition Food Box Program has been a resounding success in providing much-needed respite for caregivers across the state. By offering food boxes for healthy meals, the program aims to alleviate the burden of meal preparation and allow caregivers a well-deserved break.
Program Overview
Funded by the Administration for Community Living and supported by matching funds from Montana State University Extension, the initiative has been distributing food boxes to caregivers since April 2024. These boxes, filled with pre-made meals or meal kits, are designed to provide nutritious and convenient options. Although the initial funding ran out after 30 days, new funding will begin distribution in January 2025.
Key Program Features
Variety of Food Options: Caregivers can choose from pre-made meals from Orders Up Delivery or meal kits from Hello Fresh and Blue Apron. Orders Up, located in Bozeman, Mont., serves chef-prepared cuisine made entirely from real, premium ingredients.
- Flexibility: The program offers both individual and family-sized meals to accommodate different household needs.
- Convenience: Food boxes are delivered directly to caregivers’ homes, eliminating the need for shopping and preparation.
- Research Component: The program is also conducting research to measure its impact on caregiver well-being and inform future program development.
Program Impact
The Food Box Program has already made a significant impact on the lives of caregivers.
- Respite: By providing nutritious meals, the program has freed up caregivers’ time and allowed them to take a much-needed break from their caregiving responsibilities.
- Improved Well-Being: Many caregivers have reported feeling less stressed and more energized after participating in the program.
- Community Reach: The program has reached caregivers in 27 different counties across Montana, serving a diverse population.
Looking Ahead
The Montana Lifespan Respite Food Box Program is a valuable resource for caregivers in Montana, providing a much-needed respite from the challenges of caregiving. As the program continues, it is expected to expand and reach even more caregivers in need.
For more information or to learn how to participate in the program, please contact Call MSU Extension 406-613-8191 or email respite@montana.edu
Past Issues
A Haven for Montana's Caregivers
Respite Retreats Offer Relaxation, Recharging, and Reconnection
Caregiving can be both rewarding and exhausting, often leaving little time for self-care. To address this, MSU Extension offers respite retreats specifically designed to give caregivers a much-needed break.
These retreats provide a safe, supportive environment where caregivers can relax, recharge, and connect with others who share similar experiences and understand their challenges.
What to Expect at a Respite Retreat
At a respite retreat, caregivers can anticipate a blend of relaxation, education, and community-building. Activities such as meditation, yoga, and guided imagery are offered to help participants reduce stress and improve their overall well-being.
Educational workshops, focusing on self-care, stress management, and communication skills, are also available to equip caregivers with valuable tools for navigating the demands of their roles.
Building Community and Finding Support
Beyond relaxation and education, respite retreats provide a space for caregivers to connect with others who understand the challenges they face. These retreats foster a sense of community and support through shared experiences.
Social activities and outings are incorporated to offer a refreshing break from the demands of caregiving, helping caregivers recharge both physically and mentally.
The Benefits of Respite
Taking time away from caregiving can have a significant impact on a caregiver’s well-being. Regular breaks help reduce stress and anxiety, boost mood, and improve overall health.
By preventing burnout, caregivers can ensure they have the energy and emotional resilience to continue providing high-quality care to their loved ones. Many participants in these retreats report feeling cared for and rejuvenated after attending, often sharing experiences like, “My cup was empty when I came, but now it is full.”
Investing in Yourself as a Caregiver
By participating in respite retreats, caregivers are investing in their own well-being and ensuring they can continue to provide the best possible care for their loved ones. These retreats offer an opportunity to recharge, connect with others, and return to caregiving with renewed energy and enthusiasm.
For more information about the Montana Respite Retreats, email Daniel Koltz at daniel.koltz@montana.edu, or call 1-406-994-4351.
Upcoming 2024 Caregiver Retreats
Monday, November 4
Glasgow, MT
Cottonwood Inn and Suites
Tuesday, November 5
Havre, MT
Best Western Plus Great Northern
Wednesday, November 6
Cut Bank, MT
TBD
Monday, December 2
Deer Lodge, MT
Powell County Community Center
Tuesday, December 3
Phillipsburg, MT
Granite County Museum & Cultural Museum
Wednesday, December 4
Anaconda, MT
The Forge Hotel
Aging Horizons Has A New Host
Wilmot Collins is the new face of Aging Horizons. As Compliance and Communication Specialist for the Senior and Long Term Care Division at DPHHS, Wilmot brings years of public service experience, including work at VA Montana and Child and Family Services.
He holds a BA in Political Science and Sociology from the University of Liberia and a Master’s in Human Resources Management from Troy University.
“My whole career has been about public service and our vulnerable citizens,” he says. “I am looking forward to working closely with the producer and coworkers to manage the show’s content and production.”
Aging Horizons airs Saturdays at 9 a.m. and Sundays at 9:30 a.m. on SWX and NBC Billings, with additional broadcasts Sundays at 8 a.m. on ABC affiliates in Butte, Bozeman, Great Falls, Helena, Missoula, and Kalispell.
Episodes are also available on the DPHHS YouTube channel. Just search for Aging Horizons on YouTube.com.
Celebrate Aging: Join the Governor’s Conference on Aging in Billings
For more than 50 years, the Governor's Conference on Aging has been a cornerstone event, bringing together older adults, caregivers, families, and service providers. This conference tackles important issues elders and individuals with disabilities face. Through a wide range of informative sessions, it fosters understanding, support, and practical tools for navigating the challenges of aging and caring for vulnerable individuals.
This year the conference takes place October 1 -3, at the Billings Hotel and Convention Center. A highlight of the conference is the luncheon celebrating Montana's Centenarians. This special luncheon will take place on October 1st from 12:00 - 1:30 p.m. This heartwarming event celebrates their extraordinary lives and contributions to their communities and the state.
Don't miss out! Head over to the conference website: conferenceonaging.mt.gov. There you'll find everything you need to know about the conference, including the program schedule, registration details, and how to get involved as a sponsor or vendor.
Scan the QR code to learn more about the conference and secure your spot today.
