Life can be hard for people in all walks of life and that includes families. If you have parents that are getting older and are having a hard time caring for themselves or need additional help in their daily lives for a short time, you may be the one they turn to. Respite care is especially difficult to consider when it comes to a loved one. However, if you are working full-time as well as raising children, your plate is already full. I spend a lot of time worrying about my Grandma and trying my best to squeeze in room to visit her as much as often.
Before you can take on the care of older parents, neighbours, or friends, you need to make sure you have the time available to avoid caregiver stress or burnout. If you do find yourself with no one to help you, look into respite care.
Keep reading for the top four reasons on when to consider respite care for your loved one.
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Assistance After Being in the Hospital
If your loved one has experienced a fall or illness that required an admission to the hospital, they may still be weak and tired following their treatment. If you are concerned about your family member’s well-being, organising in-home respite care for a few days, overnight, or longer depending on their ability to care for themselves could be a big help. You will feel much better knowing your loved one is being taken care of while you are working and taking care of other duties in life.
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Caregiver Needs a Break
If you are a full-time or even part-time carer for a friend or family member, you know that caring for another person can take up a lot of personal time and headspace. Everyone needs a break here and there, and that is what respite care can provide.
As a carer, respite care allows you to take a much-needed break while your loved one still receives their regular care from another person. It could be in-home hourly, overnight, or an extended stay in a residential home.
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Help in the Home After Surgery
Has your parent or older loved one had surgery recently? Are they to stay off their feet? If you are concerned about the wellbeing of your family member after a major surgery, have no fear. Respite care can provide your loved one with the care they need in the freedom of their own home. Activities of daily living can be completed with the assistance of a respite care team member who will keep your family member healthy and happy while they heal.
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Transition to a Residential Aged Care Home
Another instance of when it would be appropriate to use respite care for your older parents is if you are investigating placement in a residential aged care home. You can have your loved one trial the experience with a short stay through respite care. It is an excellent way to experience an aged care home to see if it is a good fit and the right place for your loved one before they move in.
Why it is Essential to Have Respite Care Available
Respite care is a service for older individuals who may need additional help in their lives after getting out of the hospital or may be transitioning into a residential aged care home. Respite care allows them the freedom to stay in their own home overnight while they recover or relocate to a residential home for a short stay where they will be cared for just as if they were still at home.
Whether you loved one needs respite care after surgery, assistance after coming home from the hospital, or a break for the caregiver, know that your loved one will be in good hands and well taken care of in respite care! Please see Medicaid for Alzheimer’s and dementia article for more information on providing care.
