REST welcomes three new REST Master Trainers

A network of support for caregivers will grow throughout communities in New York and Massachusetts, thanks to the dedication of three REST trainers from the East Coast.

Linda Ungerleider of Massachusetts Lifespan Respite Coalition, and Doris Green and Eve Moses, of Lifespan of Greater Rochester, N.Y., recently completed the two-day REST Master Trainer course in Bloomingdale, Ill.

The course prepares experienced REST trainers, like Doris, Eve and Linda, to conduct the two-day REST Train-the-Trainer course. By doing so, they will help mobilize REST training - and build a network of support for caregivers - throughout their communities.

"We are thrilled to welcome Linda, Eve and Doris as our new REST Master trainers," said Lois Sheaffer, REST program director. "We look forward to working with them as they train new REST trainers and ultimately make a positive, life-changing impact on caregivers."

REST - Respite Education & Support Tools - is a nationally recognized respite-training program that benefits caregivers by allowing them to step away to refresh and recharge, knowing their loved ones are in good hands with respite-care workers, called REST Companions, who have been well trained.

Respite - or short-term temporary relief - can allow caregivers to enjoy some free time to exercise, meet a friend for lunch, attend a support-group meeting, or just run errands.

In addition to the REST Train-the-Trainer course (two days), and REST Companion course (eight hours), the program also offers the REST Essentials four-hour course, which prepares individuals to provide respite in supervised group settings, such as adult day care and other drop-off programs. In addition, all REST training materials are available in Spanish, opening the door for bilingual learners.

REST is an evidence-supported training program, with participants overwhelmingly responding that the program prepared them to feel confident in providing quality respite to families.

The REST program uses a standardized curriculum, including the 10 core competencies that are aligned with the National Respite Guidelines, developed by the ARCH (Access to Respite Care and Help) National Resource Center.

Learning about building relationships with the caregiver and the care receiver, creating a positive environment to handle ordinary and challenging respite situations, planning and adapting activities, and other topics taught in the REST curriculum, assist individuals to become effective respite-care workers, Sheaffer said.

The need for respite continues to grow. Today, more than 90 million individuals in the U.S. provide care for a family member or loved one, and respite care is one of the most frequently requested support services for caregivers, according to Caregiver Action Network.

For more information, visit restprogram.org.