Montana Respite Retreat Program Report
View, download and print a copy of this report here.
The Montana Respite Retreat Program is a research-informed program utilizing social engagement while completing activities to improve and sustain well-being of caregivers. Each retreat involves four modules focusing on social, mental health, nutrition/physical activity, and stress reduction for the participants. The modules allow the caregivers to be a part of a social group and learn new techniques to improve their mental health and well-being.
Retreat Participation
- In 2022, the Montana Respite Retreat Program held 12 retreats in 11 Montana counties.
- 137 caregivers attended and the retreats provided 912 hours of respite.
- Retreat participants show an immediate increase in well-being scores* across all the
retreats and for all of
the participants. Well-being increases with participating in the day of rest, relaxation, social engagement and activity that promote a positive experience. The data shows a continued increase in overall well-being after 1 month and 3 months have passed.
*A mixed methodology is being utilized to measure the effectiveness of the 1-day respite retreat on wellbeing with a pre, post, 1 month, 3-month and a 1-year evaluation. The research is focused on the experience that the participants had during the retreat and their experience using the self-care practices delivered at the retreat. Additionally, the WHO -5 Wellbeing Scale questionnaire is being used to collect data on the individuals Well-being.
The caregivers who responded to questions about the experience on the day of the retreat expressed decreased stress, relaxation and appreciation for being cared for.
Participant reactions included:
“I no longer feel alone in this caregiving”
“My cup was empty when I came, but now it is full”
“I feel cared for”
“I found something to affix my attention to and take my mind off my sources of stress.”
For more information on these and other MSU Extension programs please visit MSUExtension.org