Caring for an elderly relative who has limited mobility can be mentally, physically, and emotionally taxing. Respite care is a care solution that will provide a caregiver with a temporary break from their duties. 

Reasons For Seeking Respite Care

Providing an elderly loved one with the comfort and support that they need can be time-consuming and limit your ability to handle some of your personal responsibilities. You may also be in need of some time to relax and enjoy yourself, away from the setting that you are accustomed to.

Many people choose respite care so that they can attend a meeting, participate in a group or solo activity, or take a vacation. Respite care can be provided for as little as a few hours to as much as several weeks long. A caregiver who is assigned to provide services will take over the active role of the primary caregiver.

Respite Care Scenarios

A care provider can be hired to come into your home to sit with your loved one. Respite providers are also able to furnish services outside of the home. An adult care center or an assisted living facility that accepts short-term residents are two settings that can be used for respite purposes.

Some care providers provide transportation to and from an outside setting where care services will be rendered. The transportation service will involve aiding the client with entering the vehicle, making sure that the person is secured in their seat, and unloading the client, upon reaching the destination. The caregiver will interact and care for the client throughout the duration of the time that an individual spends outside of their home. 

Considerations

Your loved one's personality and the level of care that they need should be examined. If your family member is most comfortable sitting at home and doesn't have an interest in vocalizing with others outside of the home, seeking in-home respite care should be sought.

On the contrary, if your family member's limited mobility has not stopped them from participating in hobbies or seeking companionship, seeking an outside care service should be considered. Let your loved one meet a respite caregiver several days before services will be rendered.

If you are uncertain about how your family member will respond to you being away from them for a lengthy amount of time, start off with a brief care session. Request that the caregiver spends a few hours with your relative. If the session goes well, schedule a subsequent session that is longer.

Contact a local respite care service to learn more.