Caring for a partner, parent or child can be deeply rewarding. It can also be exhausting. Many family carers go months, even years, without a proper break, and their own health suffers as a result.
Respite care exists to change that. Here is what it is, how it works and how to arrange it.
What is respite care?
Respite care is short-term care that gives a family carer a break while the person they look after continues to be supported. It can last a few hours, a day, a weekend or several weeks, and it can be a one-off or a regular arrangement.
The aim is simple: the carer gets time to rest, and the person being cared for stays safe, comfortable and well looked after.
Types of respite care
- Respite at home: a professional carer comes to the home and follows the person’s usual routine. This is often the least disruptive option, especially for people living with dementia.
- Day services: the person spends part of the day at a day centre or club.
- Short stays: the person stays for a short period in a care home.
Respite at home means the person keeps their own bed, belongings and routine, which many families find reassuring.
Signs you may need a break
Carers often wait too long before asking for help. It may be time to consider respite if you:
- Feel tired most of the time, or are not sleeping well
- Have stopped seeing friends or doing things you enjoy
- Are missing your own health appointments
- Feel irritable, low or overwhelmed
- Worry about what would happen if you became ill
Taking a break is not a failure. It helps you keep caring for longer.
What happens during respite care at home?
Before the first visit, the care provider gets to know the person: their needs, routines, likes and dislikes. The respite carer can then help with personal care, meals, medication reminders, companionship and anything else in the care plan.
Afterwards, a good provider will let you know how things went, so you can relax knowing nothing was missed.
How is respite care paid for?
Some families pay for respite care privately. You may also be able to get help with the cost.
If you care for someone, you have the right to ask your local council for a free carer’s assessment. This looks at how caring affects you and what support could help, which can include respite care. The person you care for can also ask for a needs assessment of their own.
Tips for planning respite care
- Start with a short break, such as a few hours, so everyone can get used to it
- Write down routines, preferences and anything that helps the person feel settled
- Arrange care early for holidays and busy periods
- Consider a regular slot, such as one day a week, rather than waiting until you are exhausted
Need a break? We can help
Del Healthcare provides respite care at home, so you can rest knowing your loved one is in safe hands. Get in touch to talk through what would help, with no obligation.
