As we age, most people wish to remain in their own homes for a number of reasons. Being home is familiar and comfortable, and can decrease the physical, mental, and financial stress of moving into a facility. However, remaining at home can start to cause safety concerns if mental and physical health conditions are not managed or monitored properly.
A common option when you decide that your aging loved one needs assistance to stay at home is to take on the role of caregiver yourself, either by moving in with your parents, or having them move in with you. This can be a situation that takes time to adjust to, and can even cause family tension. This is why it is important to talk openly to your parents or loved one about issues such as needs, expectations, and setting boundaries.
As the sole family caregiver, it is easy to become overburdened by the added stress and responsibilities of caregiving duties, in addition to your own personal and professional duties. It is important to be aware of your limitations, and to take time for yourself to avoid caregiver burnout, and to recognize when it is time to seek professional aid, which can come in the form of Respite Care.
What is Respite Care?
Respite Care is all about taking care of the caregiver, since providing care for an elderly or ill loved one can start to take a mental and physical toll on your well-being. Respite Care offers family caregivers temporary relief from the physical and emotional burdens of caregiving, reducing stress and preserving family stability. Respite Care is an important part of an overall home care strategy, and can offer services in the home, or a variety of other settings.
- In-Home Respite
- A referred care provider can be brought into the home for a specified period of time to provide oversight and care for your loved one, allowing you to leave the home and/or have personal time to take care of your own needs.
- Alzheimer’s Respite
- Respite is especially important when caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, as it can be a physically and mentally draining task. By having a Respite care provider who specializes in Alzheimer's Care, you can take a break to give you time for your own duties, so you can return refreshed and healthy.
- Hospital Support
- Qualified care providers can perform additional support during a stay at the hospital, giving your loved one constant care and attention during some, or all, of their stay, and keeping family members up-to-date.
- Overnight
- Sometimes you need a temporary care provider to stay with your loved one overnight if you’re in need of a good night’s sleep, or need to travel. With overnight Respite Care, your loved one will be safely looked after, ensuring safety and companionship while you’re away.
- Travel Care
- If you are planning a trip with your loved one and need extra assistance during your travels, a travel care provider can travel with you and perform care. They will be discreet and compassionate, allowing your family to enjoy the trip and each other’s company, while keeping your loved one safe and properly looked after.
When Should You Consider Respite Care?
There are certain times that having the assistance of a certified and professional care provider can be invaluable. There are certain situations where you should always seek professional assistance for the safety of both you and your loved one, but there will also be less specific times when you feel like you need help or need a break, and it is important to listen to that, and not be afraid or hesitant to seek out help. You should consider Respite Care when:
- You need to travel overnight for business or pleasure (it is important to take personal vacations!)
- Your elderly parent or loved one needs to transfer from one location to another, or is staying somewhere for an extended period of time (like a surgery center, rehab facility, hospital, etc).
- Help is needed with daily activities of living, or skilled care following a hospitalization, surgery, injury, or illness.
- Your parent or loved one wants to be at home while undergoing intense medical treatment, such as chemotherapy.
- You feel mentally or physically exhausted, and need time for yourself to rest or perform personal duties.
At American In-Home Care, we always refer qualified, screened, care providers that can assist you with your Respite Care needs. Contact a Client Care Liaison at any time to set up a free assessment of your in-home care needs; they can provide you with additional information about which care options are right for you and your family. We are available to take calls 24/7 at 1-844-505-0004.
