.png)
Overview
Rapp Respite is a program of Rapp at Home, in partnership with Washington Baptist Church, Encompass Community Supports, UVA Department of Neurology, Rappahannock Department of Social Services, Aging Together, Blue Ridge Respite, and the Rappahannock Benevolent Fund. Rapp Respite provides social and self-enrichment activities for individuals with early to mid-stage dementia and/or Parkinson’s Disease, while providing caregivers with an opportunity to attend to their own needs. Activities may include meaningful socialization, music and the arts, brain games, physical fitness, gardening, cooking, service projects, field trips, etc.
Rapp Respite will meet on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Washington Baptist Church (180 Gay Street, Washington, VA 22747).
In addition, Rapp at Home offers caregiver support groups, providing connection, encouragement, and resources for those caring for loved ones with dementia and/or Parkinson's Disease. For more information on these groups, please email info@rappathome.org.
Session Structure
Each Rapp Respite session blends the comfort of a familiar routine with fresh experiences that keep the program lively and enlightening.
Predictable moments—such as welcoming one another, sharing a meal, gentle movement, and time for conversation—provide reassurance and a sense of belonging. These are complemented by changing activities and special guests, including music and other performances, creative arts, games, and hands-on experiences.
This thoughtful balance of consistency and variety helps members feel comfortable, connected, and engaged while making each Rapp Respite session something to look forward to.
Social Connection
Engaging Activities
Meals
Special Performances
A Typical Rapp Respite Session
1. Welcome & Connection
Each session begins with a warm welcome and known routines that help everyone settle in and feel at home. Greetings, conversation, light movement, and simple group activities create a comfortable transition into the session and strengthen friendships among members and volunteers.
2. Featured Activities or Performances
A special program brings something new to each gathering. Local musicians, artists, storytellers, fitness experts, community groups, students, and other guests may share their talents and interests. Members may engage in community service projects. These changing experiences add energy, discovery, and opportunities for members to connect with the wider Rappahannock community with the help of these special session volunteers.
3. Meal & Conversation
Sharing a meal provides a familiar anchor in the session—a relaxed time to enjoy food, conversation, laughter, and companionship. More than a break between activities, the meal is an important social experience that helps build the sense of community at the heart of Rapp Respite.
4. Closing
Each session ends in a similar way to create a sense of closure to the session and ease transition back to the members' home lives.