Respite Program Helps Adults with Special Needs

For some adults with developmental disabilities, life becomes uncertain after finishing grade school. Without structure or daily activities, their days can become sedentary, often leading to feelings of isolation and a diminished sense of purpose.

The Salvation Army’s London Village’s Respite program supports individuals and their families. Within Respite is the Adult Day program, which offers education, recreation and life-skill development for adults with developmental challenges.

Dave Moorhead, a single father of two, knows firsthand how critical such support can be. His youngest son, Dawson, is non-verbal and non-ambulatory, though he finds ways to communicate and can walk short distances.

As a child, Dawson attended a Salvation Army daycare. Thanks to his great experience there, Dave decided to enrol Dawson in the Adult Day program once he reached adulthood.

“When school is done, it’s a very tough time for parents of children with special needs. There’s so much uncertainty, you don’t know what’s next,” Dave says. “When I got the call about the program, it was the best day of my life. It gives Dawson what he needs and he looks forward to it every day.”

The opportunity came just as Dawson’s mood began to change. After high school, with no daily routine, Dawson spent most of his time at home. Dave could tell that this was making Dawson feel a bit down and bored.

“Dawson had become despondent. You could see it in his face. Since joining the program, he has flourished, absolutely flourished,” Dave says.

“Since joining the program, he has flourished.”

At the day program, Dawson stays active, learns new recipes and enjoys music. He often wears band T-shirts that spark the attention of fellow participants and staff. Dave says the interactions at the program have even helped Dawson become more social at home.

“The difference is night and day. He used to come downstairs and just play video games. Now, he’s engaging more. Those daily interactions are so important for him,” he explains.

Dave appreciates the affordability of The Salvation Army’s program and believes he might have been forced to retire early to take care of Dawson full-time, had it not been for their access to respite care.

“We would’ve been hit with hard times, mentally and financially.”

Dave also greatly appreciates the staff’s work.

“These programs are essential.”

“I appreciate their enthusiasm, the way they welcome him and say goodbye. It’s very nice,” Dave says. “If Dawson has a tough day, they let me know what happened and what might’ve caused it. They’re very professional.

“These programs are essential. Without them, many adults with developmental disabilities would have nothing to do and no one to connect with.”

By Juan Romero