Being a caregiver to a loved one in their time of need can be a fulfilling yet demanding role. Even for the most resilient, positive caregiver, it’s not always an easy experience. There’s nothing to be ashamed of. Having extra support goes a long way in providing quality care.
There are options for families to find short-term relief for caregivers: respite care. Examples of when to access respite care for seniors can include to avoid caregiver burnout, when the caregiver needs to travel or is undergoing home repairs, or if a senior requires assistance during recovery. No matter the need, there are care options to help keep your loved one safe and healthy.
What Is Respite Care?
Respite care offers temporary assisted living accommodations to your loved one and provides short-term relief to primary caregivers. Many older adults don’t require a full-time caregiver. They can often live independently and have family check in with them only a handful of times weekly.
An older adult may only require assistance during a period of recovery. No matter the kind of care needed, respite care can be a great option when you need an extra set of hands.
Senior living communities can provideout-of-home respite care. For those that offer short term stays, arrangements can be made for your loved ones, where they have access to the same care and amenities permanent residents receive. We can assess your loved one’s needs and develop a plan tailored to the level of care they will need.
Reasons to Use Respite Care
Help Avoid Caregiver Burnout
It may be hard for a caregiver to accept that they need a break from the physical and emotional demands of caregiving. Caregiver burnout is common and important to address. If left unchecked, burnout can lead to exhaustion that affects both oneself and the quality of care one can provide.
As their primary caregiver, you may feel hesitant to hand over the responsibility of care as you have established a routine that works for both parties. Remember, it takes a community of people to provide quality care that your loved one and yourself deserve. Respite care options allow you to keep connected with your loved one and develop a plan to provide quality care in line with their needs.
Making Arrangements for a Trip
Respite care is a good option for caregivers going away for a few days. To keep your loved one prepared and at ease for your leave, inform them about your plans and the change in schedule ahead of time.
It can be helpful to provide the respite care aid with some insight concerning how to care for your loved one. These insights may include suggestions, a breakdown of the schedule, and your loved one’s likes and dislikes. The added guidance will help maintain the routine flow without overwhelming your loved one.
Undergoing Home Repairs
Periods of home repairs and renovations can make the house less accessible for your loved one. The environment can be stressful and overstimulating. Some caregivers may decide it’s best to pursue respite care during this period.
Daily life in respite care at a senior living community is similar to that of a long-term resident. Respite care residents are provided the same services and amenities as residents, which include having a well-care team, personal care, meals, social community, and assistance with tasks.
Extra Support Post-Surgery, Injury, or Rehabilitation Recovery
Respite care can be helpful when your loved one needs assistance in recovery, whether from surgery, injury recovery, or rehabilitation. The training respite care workers are equipped with can be beneficial during your loved one’s recovery period. As their caregiver, having professional help can provide you with tips and suggestions on how to manage certain tasks.
Get Help Planning Respite Care
At The Bridges at Warwick, our respite care program was created to provide short-term relief to caregivers and their loved ones while they are in a senior living community. The Bridges at Warwick uniquely combines hospitality with professional care. We call it Lifestyle Plus. We even offer our Bridge App to ensure good communication between our team, residents and their families. Contact us to discover why the respite care community at The Bridges at Warwick can be a good fit for your family.
