Blog Hero

What Is Respite Care & Why Is It Needed?

Schedule a Visit
a pair of hands hold a piece of paper with respite written on it in black pen

All the good intentions in the world don’t change the fact that sometimes a caregiver may need a break. This could simply be for an afternoon, or it could be an extended break for several weeks or more. In situations like this, respite care can provide the needed break.

Quite often, a primary caregiver is initially either a friend or family. So, there may be extra worry surrounding the idea of someone else taking care of their loved one. As long as you’re using a reputable respite care provider, you have nothing to worry about. Trained staff will take care of your loved one and ensure they are well-taken care of while you get the break you need.

What Is Respite Care & Why Is It Needed?

Some people assume that respite care is the same as assisted living. And while they do share many of the same services, they have a significant difference. Assisted living is more of a permanent solution for someone who cannot care for themselves. Where respite care is supposed to be short-term—hence why it’s often referred to as “short-term respite care.” 

Who Needs Respite Care?

Aging is a part of life, and with it comes the struggle of remaining independent for daily activities. When an aging adult can no longer take care of themselves, sometimes a child or even grandchild steps into their lives as the caregiver. This is especially the case if there are no circumstances where the senior requires special medical care.

This care is a beautiful demonstration of family love. However, even the most loving and dedicated person gets tired and needs a break occasionally, whether for a vacation or simply an afternoon to catch up on errands.

Age isn’t the only thing that causes someone to need help in their daily activities. Sometimes, a sudden illness or severe injury is the problem. In which case, it could potentially be a younger adult that needs care.

If the needed care will likely be short-term, respite care is a good option right out of the gate. Then the person receives professional care, and their family can enjoy visiting with them instead of worrying about taking care of them.

Different Types of Respite Care

There are a few different types of respite care options available. You or your loved one’s care needs determine which type is best.

Respite Care Home

A respite care home may be the best option if there are any advanced medical care needs or for a longer short-term stay. These places have staff trained in providing care to residents with extraordinary needs.

Another significant benefit of a respite care home is that the person will have a community to be involved in. This is especially beneficial for seniors who may feel isolated or lonely if they feel cooped up at home.

At-Home Respite Care

With at-home respite care, one can still benefit from trained professionals who can take care of special needs. There’s also some flexibility if a person can maintain some independence; maybe they need someone to come in for a few hours a day, for example.

This may be an ideal form of respite care if the issue is known to be temporary. Then there’s no reason for the person to have their life uprooted, and they can stay in the comfort of their own home.

Adult Day Centers

An adult day center or program focuses on respite care for a day or maybe an afternoon. Typically, healthy meals are supplied, and activities for exercise and socialization. Some centers or programs also provide transportation to and from the individual’s home.

a nurse and a senior man are in a respite home, working on a puzzle together

Respite Care Services

Depending on which type of respite care—at home, adult day center, or care home—you decide to go with. When you book respite care, the provider will let you know everything they offer.

Some of the services or amenities available may include:

  • Outdoor activities like walks or birdwatching
  • Assistance with personal hygiene like bathing
  • Medication reminders and assistance
  • Help with getting in and out of bed
  • Help getting dressed
  • Meal preparation and assistance with eating and drinking
  • Grocery shopping, housekeeping, yard maintenance, etc.

Find Out More About Respite Care

If you’re considering short-term respite care but still have questions, reach out to our office and chat about the options with one of our team members. We understand that this is a big decision. We’re happy to put your mind at rest and book you a tour so you can see the Fox Trail Senior Living community in Park Ridge.

Ryan Donahue

Written by Ryan Donahue, Regional Vice President

More Articles By Ryan Donahue, Regional Vice President
instagram facebook facebook2 pinterest twitter google-plus google linkedin2 yelp youtube phone location calendar share2 link star-full star star-half chevron-right chevron-left chevron-down chevron-up envelope fax