A respite break should be a break from routine, not a change of scenery with the same four walls. Montbretia House sits in Ballywiheen, near Ballyferriter, in the heart of Corca Dhuibhne — and a good part of what we do is helping guests get out and enjoy it.
Here is a flavour of what a week can hold. Nothing is compulsory, and nothing is decided for you.
On the water
Dingle Marina runs wheelchair-accessible boat trips. A short scenic cruise around the harbour and bay, with commentary on local history and landmarks, is about €15 per adult, paid to the skipper on the day. If you fancy something longer, the Blasket Island eco tour runs about three hours at €45 to €60, with wildlife watching and the story of the islands. There is also a two-hour deep-sea fishing trip around Dingle Bay at €35 to €45.
In the water
The hydrotherapy pool at Munster Technological University’s north campus in Tralee is 12m by 6m and heated to 32-33.5°C. It is entered by shallow steps, with a pool chair hoist and a ceiling hoist on site, so it is genuinely accessible whatever your mobility. Sessions are €10 as you go, or €43 for a pass of five 45-minute sessions.
Closer to home
Plenty of guests are happiest without going far at all:
- the sensory garden, with its pathways, bird feeders and a pond of goldfish and golden orfe;
- raised planters, if you would like to do a bit of planting;
- boccia, skittles and balloon games outside;
- board games, cards, chess and a games console inside;
- the lounge smart TV, for an afternoon film or a match.
Out and about locally
We help guests take part in community life: the local library, book clubs, swimming clubs, gyms, nature programmes and coffee mornings. Shopping trips to Tralee and Killarney are popular, and bingo tickets can be picked up in a local shop for €2.50 a sheet.
We link in on your behalf with Enable Ireland, the MTU Sports Inclusion Disability Programme and the Irish Wheelchair Association, so that anyone who wants to join a club can.
Getting there
We do not have our own vehicle at present. Where transport is arranged with local providers the cost is met by you, and we agree it with you in advance so there are no surprises. Local Link buses and accessible taxis serve the area, and CIE and Local Link accessible buses leave Dingle three to four times a day. Timetables are on the notice board in the house.
Planning your week
At the start of each week, everyone staying meets with a social care assistant to decide what the group would like to do. Individual plans are drawn up too, so you can join in or head off on your own plan entirely.
The Resident’s Guide has the full list, including hairdressing, beauty treatments, massage and chiropody. To talk about a stay, ring (066) 912 9000.
Read more about dementia respite for adults under 65.
