Anyone who cares for a frail, ill and aging parent knows the toll it takes. Caregivers need a break sometimes. If you've thought of volunteering for a good cause, consider spending a few hours a week to provide respite care. I received this from the County of Boulder today:

The Boulder County Respite Care Volunteer program is seeking volunteers to make a difference in the lives of older adults in the community. The Respite Care program, jointly sponsored by Boulder County Aging Services Division and local senior services, matches volunteers one-on-one with frail, older adults who live alone or with caregivers. Volunteers visit their older partners two hours each week and provide friendship, emotional support and assistance with various activities. They also provide respite -a break-for family caregivers. The next countywide trainings for new respite care volunteers will be Tuesday, Oct. 17, from 1-4 p.m., in Niwot and Thursday, Nov. 30 from 9 a.m.-noon in Longmont. Volunteers are screened, trained and insured by Boulder County. Volunteers who are available during daytime hours are especially needed, but all are welcome. For more information or to register, call Mary Jane Longanecker at 303-678-6286.