Respite Care – Different types and how to access it

Caring for a loved one requires a lot of time, dedication, and emotional energy. It’s not always easy looking after someone with a disability or chronic disease. It’s also full-time work: you have to be there for them 24 hours a day, seven days a week, all year round.

Because of this, many carers eventually burn out. They want to help their loved ones, but the sheer demand of the work takes its toll. They have no time for themselves.

Fortunately, respite care offers a solution. It doesn’t replace the work you do (that continues long-term) but it does give you a break. Other people come in and take over your responsibilities, allowing you to do other things, such as rest, relax, go on vacation or pursue your hobbies.

What’s more, respite care is beneficial for your relationship with your loved one. Just as vacations allow workers space to think more positively about their careers, respite gives you a chance to recharge your batteries so that you’re able to provide your loved one with better care when you get back.

In this post, we take a look at the different types of respite care available and how to access them. It’s not one-size-fits-all.

Day care centres

A day-care centre is a place you can take your loved ones that will provide them with entertainment and care during the day, giving you some time off. Most facilities have access to medical services in-house and can take care of things like medicine administration and so on.

In addition, day-care centres provide valuable companionship. They prevent older adults who need assistance from feeling lonely. They can free up so much time for caregivers that they can handle personal businesses, go to work, or dedicate more of their energies to looking after children.

Home care from a paid carer

Another option is to get home care from a paid carer. These days, there are many platforms and services available that facilitate this type of work. You simply tell the carer the amount of coverage that you require, and then they will charge you by the half-hour or hour.

The great thing about home care from a paid carer is how flexible it is. You can get assistance with basic tasks every day, such as lifting your loved one out of bed with a hoist, or personal care. Or you can hire carers for days at a time, allowing you to spend time away.

People also like homecare because it lets the person being cared for a stay in their home. They don’t have to travel to another facility.

A short stay in a home

Short stays in homes for the elderly are another option. Homes usually refer to this as ‘short-term care.’

It’s relatively easy to set up. The home will make background checks, such as whether the person has a permanent residence to go to when you return, and then you’re ready to go. Most short-term care facilities offer assisted living and memory care for dementia patients. They also make accommodations for your loved one’s preferences, needs, and wants, including their spiritual requirements.

Many older people dislike the idea of going into a home, but don’t mind it if it is short-term — say, one to two weeks. It can be a fun experience because they get to meet new people.

Respite holidays

Respite holidays, also sometimes called ‘respite days’, are days when you simply take a break from caring.

How this works depends on your circumstances. If your loved one requires around-the-clock attention, then you’ll need to hire professionals or get family members to cover for you. If they don’t require constant attention, you may be able to set them up so that they can live independently for a short period.

Help from friends & family

Lastly, many people get help from friends and family. Asking other people to chip in from time to time improves your quality of life and your relationship with the person you look after. Many people just need a break from the daily responsibilities of personal care, feeding, medication, and mobility.

Approaching friends and family and asking for help with care can be challenging, though, so how should you ask?

Start by stating your requirements to your friends and family. Tell them that you want a break for a certain period and what responsibilities they have. If it’s short-term, most friends and family members will agree to help you out. Then just see what they say. Even if they say no, there are still plenty of other options.