If you, or someone you know, are engaged in caring for a loved one, sooner or later you’re going to need a break. The emotional and physical demands of caring for someone 24/7 are far too overwhelming for one person to handle alone – at least they are if you want to maintain your health and sanity. It’s not uncommon for the stresses of care giving to take a serious toll on our physical and emotional well-being. Studies link high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, depression and other health ailments with care giving. Respite care … the “pause that refreshes”, could be the key to preserving your sanity and well-being.
So what exactly is respite care? Respite care refers to a short rest or a temporary period of relief. What I call the “pause that refreshes”. It benefits the care recipient and provides support to the caregiver so he/she doesn’t feel so alone in the care giving journey. Whether you want to spend time with friends, go to the movies or just catch up on your sleep, respite care means a responsible caregiver will watch your loved one so you can have a well-deserved break.
Don’t make the mistake of waiting for a crisis before taking advantage of respite. And remember that the first step to finding respite care that works for you is to take stock of the skills, type and frequency of services you need.
What is it that you and the care recipient need the most? Is it helping with transportation? Someone to do the grocery shopping and cook meals? Assistance with daily walks or other forms of exercise? Companionship for a few hours each day? Bathing and grooming? Or maybe you need help with transferring?
Answering these questions will help you choose from a variety of available respite services:
- In-homecare – This enables individuals the comfort and familiarity of remaining in their home environment. You can request a companion who will engage the individual in stimulating recreational activities and provide transportation to appointments. A personal care provider assists with bathing, dressing, feeding and toileting. Homecare services offer meal preparation, shopping, and housekeeping. Depending on your needs, you can choose one or a combination of these services.
- Adult daycare – Group respite care is provided in a structured and stimulating environment outside of the home. This type of respite is typically available Monday through Friday. Daily activities may include music, exercise, art and lectures.
- Residential care – When you need a break, there are residential facilities that offer short term stays. Care recipients can stay overnight, for several days or for several weeks.
We all know the “golden rule” of good care-giving: “take care of thy self”. Respite care gives you an opportunity to do this. After all, if we don’t take care of ourselves who is going to take care of those who depend on us?
Maybe it’s time to take the “pause that refreshes.”
Carl R. Johnson
Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)®
Community Relations Director
Abiding HomeCare
Silverdale, WA
