Taking care of yourself or a loved one who needs more attention either due to aging, illness, or injury is a daunting task. Everybody gets tired and it’s important to remember that though it can be hard to know how to get help, respite care can feel like an immediate relief while you figure things out.
What is Respite Care?
Respite care provides short-term or temporary relief for primary caregivers. This can look different depending on the type of care needed and the amount of time needed. Whether it’s just for an afternoon or at a regular interval of days or weeks, respite care is an option for any scenario. Care can be provided at different locations: a home, a healthcare facility, an adult day center, or at a residential facility that offers overnight stays. Ultimately, respite care provides a break.
The Positive Impact of Respite Care
Respite care doesn’t need to be necessary to be sought out, sometimes it’s just time to reevaluate the needs of the caregiver as well as the person receiving care or to take a day off. This can ease the burden of care, relieve stress, restore energy, and promote balance in the caregiver’s life. The isolation, exhaustion, and even burn out that can accompany caregiving is alleviated. The person receiving care can also benefit from respite care. This means they are receiving variety in their life, some stimulation, and a welcomed change in routine (although it doesn’t necessarily need to change routine if consistency is the goal). It’s also important that not a single person is responsible for all care, as fostering multiple relationships is important to distribute responsibilities and to keep dynamics healthy. A fresh pair of eyes can also help notice anything that might have gone unnoticed. While the positive impact cannot be emphasized enough, it is also important to keep in mind that respite care is adjustable and can often be personalized to specific needs.
For More Information Contact Freedom Home Care
While a break sounds exactly right it can be hard to know where to go to get information regarding available services and what something like respite care might cost after insurance. Freedom Home Care is nearby and can answer any questions about respite care in general, as well as questions about other care options: personalized elder care, Alzheimer’s care, and care by certified caregivers. Questions of personalization, cost, and qualifications are all welcome no matter what step in the process you are in. Freedom Home Care serves the Chicagoland, northern Illinois, and North Shore area with offices in Highland Park, Lake Forest, and Barrington. Reach us at 847-433-5788. We are always happy to help those who need a hand.
