If you are a full- or part-time caregiver to your loved one, the chances are good you may need respite care. Respite care assists with a person’s care needs, so that the primary caregiver can take a break. This break can occur regularly or occasionally.
What types of respite care are available?
- In-home: Respite provided by volunteers or paid professionals. You may arrange these services directly or through an agency. Services may last from a few hours to overnight.
- Respite care at an adult day center: Designed for those needing help to manage independently or who are isolated and lonely. Planned activities promote well-being through social and health services. Adult day centers typically operate during daytime hours, Monday through Friday.
- Residential Programs: Temporary around-the-clock medical and respite care for varying lengths of time at specialized communities.
According to the Family Caregiver Alliance, an estimated 44 million Americans provide assistance and support to a chronically ill, disabled or older family member annually. Research shows family members who provide care to loved ones are at risk for health problems due to complex caregiving situations and the strains of caring for frail or disabled relatives.
Signs and Symptoms of Caregiver Stress
Signs and symptoms of caregiver stress and burnout include:
- Anxiety, depression and/or irritability
- Feeling tired and run down
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- New or worsening health problems
- Feeling resentful or hopeless
- Drinking, smoking or eating more
- Tendency to become ill
- Neglecting one’s own needs
- Revolving life around caregiving
- Trouble relaxing
- Being increasingly impatient and irritable with the person who needs care
Potential Benefits of Respite Care
Many organizations, including Cassia, offer respite assistance tailored to your loved one’s unique needs. This allows him or her to take advantage of new friendships and activities while enjoying amenities like freshly prepared meals.
Potential benefits of respite care include:
- Reduce stress
- Improve health and well-being
- Avoid or delay out-of-home placement
- Minimize conditions that could lead to abuse and neglect
- Strengthen family stability
Of course, you will always want to consult your loved one before choosing a respite community. Talk with them about how long you will be away and bring your loved one for lunch or a tour before making any final decisions.
Note: This is not medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for personal medical guidance.
Decisions about moving or caring for a loved one can be difficult to navigate. At Meadowview of Davenport and Cassia, we are here to help. To learn more, please visit MeadowviewDavenport.com or contact us directly at Cassandra.Chenoweth@CassiaLife.org or 563-296-5020.