If you’re a parent, caregiver or loved one caring for an elderly person with disabilities, respite care can be an essential bridge to long-term senior living. It’s not just for the elderly—respite care can also help those recovering from illness or injury and their families.
Respite care is a short-term stay in a senior living facility. It’s designed to give caregivers the time they need to take care of themselves, while their loved ones are cared for by others.
It’s easy to suffer burnout as a care giver. Respite care is a great way to take a much needed break.
The goal of respite care is twofold: First and foremost, it helps provide relief from the anxiety that comes with being responsible for someone else’s well-being day in and day out; secondarily (and perhaps more importantly), it allows those who aren’t able to handle full-time physical or mental tasks due to illness or injury time off from work so they can recuperate at home.
Respite care is a short-term program designed to provide relief for families who have a family member who needs medical attention but cannot leave the home.
It can be provided by families, friends or neighbors who are able to take over some of the responsibilities of caring for their loved one.
It may also include paid assistance from professionals such as social workers or nurses. Respite care may also be provided in hospitals or nursing homes when needed by people with disabilities (or other health conditions).
Types of Respite Care
In house Respite care:
- Trained Staff
- Volunteers
- Family and friends
- Professional health care options
External Respite care
- Adult day care centers
- Respite camps
- Nursing Homes
To locate respite care services near you or talk with a professional and explore your options
Can I stay in respite care long-term?
Respite care is a good way to get used to living in a different environment, and it’s also a good way to get used to living with less help.
If you’re looking for an opportunity to move out of your home and into respite care temporarily while you try something new, this may be an ideal option for you.
Some people find that they like the idea of being able to stay in respite care long-term as well—especially if they’re feeling more independent than usual after having been hospitalized or away from home for an extended period of time (such as during winter).
Who pays for respite care?
- Private pay
- Insurance
- Government funding (e.g., Medicaid)
Why do I need respite care?
- To give yourself time to rest
- To spend time with friends and family
- To take a vacation
- Respite care can be an essential bridge to long-term senior living. If after a while, you notice that this something that both you and your loved find suitable, you can easily make the switch into a full time assisted living facility.
- You’ll have more energy and focus because taking care of yourself every day isn’t required during this period.
Respite care gives you a break from your routine and allows you to explore new interests or hobbies. It’s also an important part of preparing for long-term living. Even if you don’t need long-term care, respite can be a great way to stay active in society as you age. You can still enjoy life at home or out on adventures with loved ones who are able to take care of themselves.