Respite care options for carers

If you are currently the full-time carer of an elderly relative and you’re struggling to provide them with the care that they need to remain in their own home, you may be wondering if there is an alternative.

Respite care can provide you with the opportunity to have a short break and could also dovetail into a long term care solution.

Respite Care Options

There are two practical options that you might like to consider for respite care including:

Daycare centres or clubs
Home care

Daycare centres or clubs…

Are generally run by local councils or through charities. Elderly people spend a day or two each week at local centres where they can take part in organised activities or just socialise. The centres usually provide transport to and from the venue, and specialist carers are on-site to cater to those with poor eyesight, disabilities or dementia.

Daycare centres or clubs could provide you with a degree of respite from the continual care scenario.

Home care service companies…

Can call in to visit your elderly relative several times during the day as necessary or they can provide 24-hour live-in care, depending on the level of care required. Assistive care can also be provided when your relative is contacted by phone during the day to check that they are okay.

If your elderly charge is reluctant to hand over the responsibility of their care to someone other than you, using a good home care service company once or twice a week could be a good way of introducing the idea.

The Advantages of Respite Care

Carers can have a well-earned break from the stresses of providing day-to-day care, giving them time to focus on their own health and their family.
Elderly people who are housebound can enjoy a change of scenery and different company.
You can enjoy your break safe in the knowledge that specialist care can be provided for your elderly relative while you are away.
Some help towards funding respite care is often available through social services or your local authority.

In conclusion

Respite care can offer you a break from looking after an elderly relative and can also provide them with a welcome change of scenery. Why not have a chat with the caring staff at your local home care provider, such as The Great Care Company, to see how they could help you to enjoy some free time, whilst maintaining a high level of care for your elderly relative.