The Caring Place

The Caring Place of Hot Springs provides respite for caregivers and families of people with dementia through a supervised program for participants in a safe and comfortable environment.

Participants benefit from the relaxed and friendly program of social and recreational activities.

Those include holiday celebrations, sing-alongs, reminiscence activities, pet visits, Memories in the Making art program, music therapy, men’s group, ladies’ quilting group, monthly visits from Master Gardeners and Emblem Club dancers, crafts, special guest entertainment, and exercise.

In addition, a morning snack and home-cooked lunch are provided each day. The fee of $8 per hour covers all activities and meals, and is covered by Medicaid. There are grants available to assist families with the tuition, if needed.

The Caring Place is licensed and regulated by the Arkansas Office of Long Term Care and is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Along with five paid staff members, there are more than 60 trained volunteer staff members who contribute their time and talents each month.

Each staff member undergoes a full background check and orientation training before being hired, and all receive on-going training in all aspects of dementia. The care ratio is one staff member for every two to three participants.

The program is a ministry outreach of First United Methodist Church and a group of interfaith volunteers. Participants from all walks of life and any form of dementia are welcome.

The Caring Place, 101 Quapaw Ave., is open from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Thursday. For information about the program or to enroll a loved one, visit the website http://www.thecaringplaceofhotsprings.com or call Director Lynn Reeves, 623-2881.