Without a doubt caring for others can be physically and emotionally demanding. It’s understandable, then, that you may feel overwhelmed from time to time. This is why respite care is so important. Respite care is essentially allowing yourself a much-needed break, while the person you care for is looked after by someone else.
Whether you’re looking for a few hours of support during the daytime or an extended break, there is a wide range of services available to you out there. Here, we explore some of the reasons why respite care is important, and how home care services can support you and your loved one.
Rest and Recuperation
As we’ve mentioned before, caring for someone on a full-time basis can be exhausting. Over time, you may find yourself neglecting your own needs, not getting enough sleep or eating properly, particularly if you live with the person you’re caring for. Lack of respite can take a toll on your physical and mental health, impacting your ability to provide the best quality of care for your loved one.
Studies have shown that the impact of stress on a primary caregiver is linked to health conditions like high blood pressure and type two diabetes. This is where home care services can be of immense help to you.
By getting in touch with care agencies near you, you can access the range of services available. Sharing the responsibility of care, even for a few hours during the day can make a huge difference to your physical and mental wellbeing. That break you have could simply be popping out for a coffee, meeting up with friends or going to the gym. Overnight and extended stays are also available and important for carers. After accessing respite, you’re sure to return to caring feeling more energetic, reinvigorated and focused.
Improved Relationships Between Carer and Cared-For
Often, caring can be an exhausting, frustrating and lonely occupation, especially when you’re providing in-home care. Taking a break from the daily responsibilities of care work can positively impact your relationship with the person you care for. By taking time out for yourself, seeing friends and the wider community and engaging in relaxing activities, you will reduce your stress levels. This will, in turn, allow you to return to caring with a renewed level of energy and patience.
A Change of Routine
If you’re caring for someone elderly in their own home, it’s likely that their social interactions may be quite limited. This is where respite care can be beneficial to the person being cared for too.
A new face offers a change in the usual day-to-day routine of an elderly person living at home, adding a bit of variety by enabling them to meet and interact with a new person in their own environment.
The importance of companionship for older people cannot be understated, as it provides much-needed stimulation and engagement. Those providing elderly health and respite care also understand that the client’s routine can be followed as closely as possible, avoiding any disruptions. This means that while you’re having a well-earned break that you can rest assured knowing that your loved one is benefiting from respite care too.
Part of a Well-Structured Care Plan
Keeping regular respite breaks in your care plan is sure to benefit you and your loved one in the long term. By consistently reducing your stress and enabling yourself to engage with the wider community, you will be better able to care for your family member.
Using the same home care service consistently can also provide much-needed safety and security in case of an emergency. Should such a situation occur, you and your loved one will have a familiar face to depend on. Your regular carer will clearly understand your routines and be accustomed to providing the care you need.
Peace of Mind
Whether you’re accessing respite care on an emergency basis or as part of a long-term care plan, it’s natural that you’ll want to be assured that your loved one is being cared for to the highest standard available.
There are a variety of services providing elder care and you will want to make the best choice for you and your family member. If possible, communicate with your loved one to make a choice both of you are comfortable with. When you’ve selected someone who can work around existing routines and structures in your home, you will be comfortable sharing the responsibility of care with them.
Peace of mind is integral to enjoying and benefiting from a respite break. At Caremark, we understand the value of high-quality home health care and its benefits for carers. To learn more about what we offer, including dementia home care services and respite for carers, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.
