Respite Care: All Of Us Need It Once In A While!

Respite is a period of rest or relief. For those who give constant care, whether it is for an aging parent, an ill relative or for babies or small children, respite care can be very welcome indeed. The need to relieve a primary caregiver is becoming more and more apparent, and community agencies are training personnel who serve as respite workers for those in need.

Respite workers go through many hours of instruction in order to understand the needs of both the caregiver and the care receiver. Their primary purpose in the home is to relieve the primary caregiver. They provide companionship and supervision. They can also provide comfort and safety by providing meals and snacks, taking walks around the neighborhood, engaging the person in stimulating activities such as reading, listening to music, making a craft or completing a crossword puzzle. Respite workers are NOT allowed to administer medications or provide housekeeping or chore services.

While most respite work is found in the home, this service may also be performed in other arenas. Some caregivers take their family members to a day facility, where meals are provided and participants can engage in a variety of activities, such as exercise classes, crafts, reading discussion groups and writing classes. Other caregivers may need occasional help from   an assisted living facility or a skilled nursing facility. Some facilities will provide respite care for a few days, and some can take care of a person for up to a few weeks. 

Respite care is available for family members who try to “do it all” when it comes to caring for their loved one, but need a break once in a while. It is very important for all caregivers to have an occasional rest period, where they can do something just for them. Whether caregivers take a nap, walk around the block, go for a swim or go out to lunch with a friend, the time away gives them a chance to return with more energy.

Caregivers are ultimately better able to face the daily demands of care. Respite is also good medicine for the care receiver as well. Having someone different providing care gives the person a chance to develop a new friendship. Care receivers are then better able to work with their family members who service their daily needs.

Respite care just may be the best family medicine on the market today!