If you’re providing care for your loved one, you may long for a night to call your own. Better yet, a few days and nights of R&R. Go to bed when you’re ready, sleep deeply, and do what you want all day!
A respite break isn’t indulgent, it’s smart. You need frequent, regular opportunities to wind down and focus on your own needs and delights—daily, weekly, monthly, annually. Respite replenishes your inner resources so you can be the loving, patient care provider you want to be.
To gain respite on a daily or weekly basis, consider these options:
- Adult day centers. These programs provide supervision along with recreation and meals in a group setting. They may be a standalone facility or part of a senior center.
- Enrichment programs. A provider spends one-on-one time with your loved one, doing an enjoyable activity. The service may be offered through a local agency or community organization.
For overnight or longer getaways, you have generally two options:
Your relative stays home. If you already have a hired caregiver, ask if they would provide some multiday help. Or make arrangements with a home care agency. Have the agency’s care provider spend time at the house with you and your relative ahead of time. Easing in helps your loved one feel safer and lets the provider learn the routines.
You stay home. Typically, this means finding a facility that has beds available for short-term occupancy. Plan ahead to get the dates you want and check for minimum length of stay. You’ll also need lead time to complete necessary assessments and paperwork.
- Assisted living. Assisted living fits if your loved one has only mild disability. A person capable of handling some independence may enjoy the social activities and communal meals.
- Memory care. If your relative has moderate or advanced dementia, then a specialized care unit with trained staff and closer supervision is more appropriate.
- Skilled nursing facility. If your loved one has medical needs (wound care, injections, IV medication, pain management), a rehab facility is the best match.
Most of these arrangements are private pay, unless hospice is involved. Check with the VA, fraternal organizations, or your Area Agency on Aging for available respite grants.