Our Home Under the Dome Ministry at First United Methodist Church of Gulfport is designed to help enrich the lives of adults with memory loss through fellowship and engaging activities while also providing support for caregivers. Time spent at the respite ministry provides participants a safe and socially connected environment while allowing caregivers the opportunity for personal time in which to rest and address their own needs. This is a social ministry and no medical care is provided. Home Under the Dome is open to all denominations and members of the community affected by memory loss who meet the admission criteria.
Our Mission is to enhance the lives of adults with memory loss through socially engaging activities while providing resources and support for care partners.
Click here to watch this video to gain insight about this incredible new ministry started at FUMC Gulfport in August 2022.
SERVICES OFFERED
For the Participant (Friend):
Home Under the Dome respite ministry provides a loving and mentally stimulating environment for the well-being of each friend. A variety of activities includes, but is not limited to, social, creative, intellectual, spiritual, and recreational programming.
Examples of activities include:
- Music
- Exercise
- Bible Study/Devotion
- Arts and Crafts
- Pet Assisted Therapy
- Service Projects
- Gardening
- Participants may choose to come one or more days.
For the Caregiver (Care Partner):
Caring for a family member or loved one is gratifying, but it is also challenging. Home Under the Dome Respite Ministry is designed to relieve the caregivers for free time so they can:
- Run Errands
- Take care of business
- Relax
Caregivers enjoy peace of mind knowing their loved ones are cared for in a safe and loving environment. Information on a care giver support group and community resources will be made available to the care partner.
ADMISSION CRITERIA
Participation in the program will be based on the applicant’s ability to participate and the initial interview with the director.
Participants must be independent in the following:
- Ambulating
- Attending to their own bathroom needs
- Participating in social activities
- Feeding themselves
We require a completed medical examination from the participant’s physician and a list of current medications. Caregivers are invited to call and schedule a tour of Home Under the Dome Respite Care Ministry prior to enrollment.
