What is Respite Care

Respite care provides short-term relief for caregivers while their loved one continues to receive care and possibly socialize with others. Caregivers who need a break utilize respite care services to support their loved ones with chronic health conditions, disabilities, terminal illness, Alzheimer’s, or dementia. These services often include:

• Creating opportunities for loved ones to foster companionship with others
• Managing medications and medical devices
• Organizing social activities like creating art, dancing, or exercising
• Providing transportation to appointments
• Supporting activities of daily living (ADLs)

Types of Respite Care

Caregivers can choose from different respite care options that meet their needs and comfort level:

• Informal respite care provided by friends, family, or neighbors
• In-home respite care provided by volunteers or paid professionals who come to you
• Adult daycare centers as a safe, engaging place for your loved one to stay during the day
• Residential respite care provided in a senior living community

The Benefits of Respite Care

Caregivers and their loved ones both enjoy many benefits from respite care:

• Flexibility to receive these services in a way that fits your needs and schedule
• Improved health and wellness after getting the chance to rest, handle other priorities, and pursue hobbies
• Opportunities for you and your loved one to see familiar faces and make new friends
• Potential access to unique amenities and services such as fitness centers, outings, and recreational activities
• Specialized, consistent care tailored to your loved one’s needs
• Strengthened relationship if you care for your parent
• Strengthened relationship if you care for your spouse

How is Respite Care Covered

The cost of respite care depends on your location, insurance, and desired services. Look into your insurance plan and these additional resources that may assist you:

• Aid and Attendance for those who receive a VA pension
• Long-term care insurance
• Medicaid Waiver program that varies state by state
• Not-for-profit assistance programs like the Eldercare Locator

When is it Time for Respite Care

There are plenty of signs that signify you and your loved one need to consider respite care:

• You have out-of-town obligations, vacation time, or lots of travel plans
• You have personal obligations or other responsibilities that need attention
• You or your loved one is experiencing social isolation
• You’re experiencing caregiver burnout
• You’re juggling work outside of home with caregiving
• You’re sick or injured and need time to recover
• Your loved one is experiencing health issues and requires specialized attention

Start Planning for Respite Care

Now’s the perfect time to establish respite care plans you can rely on for emergencies or much-needed self-care days:

• Talk with your family to explore taking turns caregiving or what respite care services you want. If you know someone who’s also a caregiver, consider having scheduled days where you each take turns watching your loved ones while the other rests.
• Identify the go-to people or services your loved one can rely on in the event of an emergency. Additionally, research other respite care services and collect referrals.
• Contact potential providers, visit their place of service, and sign up for a trial run experience to see how you and your loved one feel.
• Discuss your caregiver duties and needs with your employer to ensure honest and open communication.

Looking for some helpful caregiving tips? Check out our resources for caregivers here!

At Life Enriching Communities (LEC), we’re committed to ensuring patrons feel well-equipped to plan their future and age how they wish. Explore more resources on senior living or contact us today to learn more about our legacy of services and programs that bring meaning and purpose to every stage of life.