When you are the sole caregiver for a loved one, it can be overwhelming, but also very rewarding. Full-time caregiving can leave very little time for your job, taking care of yourself, and maintaining your household. Respite care can offer you a break (respite), which can help you devote some time to yourself to enjoy the things you like to do, take care of your family and pets, or just relax and reflect on the things that you are most grateful for.

Taking a break from full-time caregiving can relieve stress and help you become a more effective caregiver so that your loved one feels safe and loved. Here are some things to know about respite care and how both you and your loved one can benefit.

Features Of Respite Care In The Home 

While you can take your loved one to a nursing home for temporary respite care, many caregivers opt for the respite professional to come to their homes. Respite care refers to temporary care for a patient when the primary caregiver is unable to provide the care. Many caregivers take the opportunity to hire a respite professional simply to take a break from their responsibilities as a caregiver and to prevent caregiver burnout.

When respite services are provided in the person's home, it makes it more convenient for you, as the caregiver, and also more comfortable and familiar for your loved one. In addition to assisting your loved one with their activities of daily living, the respite professional can offer companionship, prepare nutritious meals, run errands, and take the person to their scheduled appointments.

Types Of Respite Care

There are a few different types of respite services to consider. One type is where you hire a respite professional to come into your home for a short period of time, often just for a weekend, but sometimes up to a couple of weeks. Another type of respite care is where the family member takes their loved one to an assisted living facility, nursing home, or another respite center for a specific period of time. This gives the patient the opportunity to get out of the house and enjoy a different environment where they can mingle with other people their age. They can also enjoy activities such as crafts, playing bingo, pet therapy, gardening, and enjoying time outdoors and going on day trips.

Many respite providers are nurses who can administer oral and injectible medications, handle medical emergencies, and monitor respite patients for changes in their health and cognitive condition. If changes are noted in your loved one's condition, the respite provider will notify you.

If you need some time off from providing care to your loved one, contact a respite healthcare agency. After you have the information you need, you can then determine how long and which type of respite services are best for you and your loved one. 

For more info about respite care, contact a local company.