Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Just A Minute Respite?
A: Just A Minute Respite is a respite service for caregivers who are looking for short-term, weekend companion care. Just A Minute Respite offers 2 to 8-hour guided excursions for seniors to local entertainment, dining, and other venues. We aim to give caregivers a guilt-free break by providing a safe and enjoyable experience for their loved ones at the same time. Knowing a loved one is not alone goes a long way towards alleviating the guilt that accompanies the few hours away you need to decompress. We take care of all the planning, so caregivers don't have one more thing to do or worry about.
Q: Can Seniors Without a Caregiver Purchase Tickets?
A: Absolutely! We welcome seniors who live alone, or bring a friend and enjoy the excursion together.
Q: What types of activities do your excursions include?
A: To make our excursions beneficial as well as enjoyable, we prioritize pairing dining and some form of entertainment. From breakfast and a hands on activity to lunch and a matinee to a day in nearby Hershey or an occasional day trip to check out interesting venues within a two-hour radius, and many things in between. We strive to offer enjoyable experiences that cater to different preferences and are open to suggestions.
Q: Explain the logistics.
A. Depending on the excursion, caregivers may bring their loved one directly to a venue or meeting place. For drop-offs, a uniformed team member will be at the main entrance to greet all guests, and at least one more team member will escort each guest to our assigned location. Each excursion includes a minimum of two companions, larger ones will have more. At the end of the excursion, the caregiver will pick their loved one up at the same location, or transportation can be provided to the guests’ residence, after all other guests have departed the venue, for an additional fee. For excursions that include transportation, caregivers will be given the local drop off/pick up point to meet our team members.
Q: How do you ensure the safety and well-being of the participants during the excursions?
A: At Just A Minute Respite, safety is our top priority. All our excursion companions are carefully selected mature, compassionate, and patient individuals. We maintain a low participant-to-companion ratio to ensure personalized attention and safety throughout the entire outing.
Q. My loved one requires medications during an excursion. Can Just A Minute Respite Companions administer them?
A. Just A Minute Respite Companions may remind your loved one to take medications but cannot assist in administering them. Simply let us know prior to the excursion if your loved one needs a reminder.
Q: How do I book an excursion for my loved one?
A: Booking an excursion with Just A Minute Respite is easy! Simply visit the Excursions page on our website and browse the available excursions and their respective dates and times. Once you find a suitable option, you can complete the booking process online. Our pricing is transparent and varies depending on the duration of the excursion and the specific activity planned. PA sales tax is added after your ticket purchase(s). If you prefer to book with a credit card over the phone, please call 717-844-6040 and we'll reply as soon as possible.
Q: Is Just A Minute Respite insured?
A: Yes, Just A Minute Respite is a registered LLC in Commonwealth of PA and we carry comprehensive business and automobile insurance coverage. We comply with all the necessary regulations and standards to provide a safe and reliable experience for both caregivers and their loved ones. We have three policies that we ask all customers to review and agree to before purchasing tickets. Our General Liability Policy explains that despite our best intentions, accidents beyond our control could happen, and that you understand this potential risk. Our Independence Policy requires that all guests are considered “independent” based on the Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living. The index covers dressing, toileting, transferring, continence, and feeding. By attending our excursions, participants are confirming that they meet the specified criteria. Our Cancellation and Refund Policy states that we will do all we can to ensure you’re satisfied with your experience.
Q. Are Just A Minute Respite services covered by Medicare?
A. Unfortunately, companion care is rarely covered.
Q. I have more questions. Who can I talk to?
Complete the Contact Us form or call 717-844-6040 and one of our Team Members will respond as quickly as possible.