What is Respite Care?
Respite care is when temporary or short term care is provided for a person who needs home care. It is often provided to assist families and give the main carer or family a break from a while, perhaps because they are going on holidays, require additional help or are finding the continual care a little overwhelming.
How long or how short can Respite Care be?
Respite care can be extremely flexible in terms of what is provided, as long as it is booked in advance. For example, a family may book two weeks of respite care if they are going on holiday or for a long weekend away. Respite care can also be provided for one or two hours every day or every other day. It could also be booked for a full day a week or two nights a week to give the main carer some time off to relax, recharge batteries and look after themselves too.
Why people sometimes delay asking for it?
It can happen that family members sometimes feel guilty about looking for respite care, that they feel they should be capable of providing the care for their loved one and they are reluctant to ask for help. They may feel they are failing their loved one. However, seeking help or a break is extremely important, particularly if the care required is for many hours a day. Carers need to look after their own physical and emotional health and a change away from the situation can recharge their batteries, giving them back a zest for caring again.
We know that caring for a family member can be very rewarding but it can also be exhausting and emotionally draining. It is important to look after your own health too.
Advantages of Respite Care:
1. Gives the main carer a break from the main home care duties, this means they are refreshed, healthier and happier.
2. Prevents the main carer feeling overwhelmed, helps them to feel more in control.
3. If the main carer is the only caregiver, they will feel more secure knowing that someone else knows the routine should they become ill from illnesses such as influenza or a bad cold.
4. It can also mean that all care can be provided within the home rather than having to go to a nursing home.
5. It can increase the number of activities that the carer and the care receiver tend to partake in. The carer is more energised and motivated. The respite carer can take the role of facilitating one of the activities, be in on a weekly or daily basis, for the care receiver.
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