Finding the right support network when caring for your loved one is an important aspect of providing quality care. Life happens! Moments can arise when you’re unable to care for your loved one.
In some cases, your loved one may require overnight care for a temporary period.
Respite care provides primary caregivers the time for temporary relief from caregiving. Respite care often offers both independent living and assisted living options, providing professional support for your loved one in a community environment.
Understanding Respite Care
Respite care is a temporary, short-term care option designed to provide relief for caregivers and their families. Respite care often offers flexible care options since many older adults don’t require a full-time caregiver.
Many senior living communities provide respite care. Older adults can engage in various activities in a safe and supportive environment while receiving attentive care suitable for them.
Respite care is flexible, ranging from a few days to several weeks. Our respite care program offers overnight stays, for when families are away. This environment is tailored to the specific needs of each resident and their families, confirming that residents receive the appropriate amount of care and attention.
Reasons to Seek Respite Care
Sometimes, primary caregivers need to be away for some time. Whether it’s for business, leisure, or simply to rest, respite care can temporarily help support your loved one.
Life happens! There are several scenarios where families may want to access respite care for their loved ones. These may include:
- Time away from home
- Undergoing home renovations
- Extra support post-surgery, illness, injury, or rehabilitation
- Avoiding caregiver burnout
- Experience community living
Time Away
Whether it’s due to an unexpected trip or planned time away, respite care is a great option when families are out of town for a few days.
To keep your loved one prepared for your leave, inform them about your plans and their change in schedule ahead of time.
Upon transitioning to respite care, it may be helpful to inform staff members on how they can provide the most comfortable environment for your loved one. Insights may include a breakdown of your loved ones’ schedule or their likes and dislikes.
Sharing this information can help maintain a flow of routine without overwhelming your loved one. Our goal is to provide a safe and comfortable environment for all of our residents.
Home Renovations
If your loved one resides with you in your home during a period of home improvements or renovations, the chaotic environment can be dangerous and can make the house less accessible.
As a result, some families may choose to access respite care during this period.
The environment in respite care emphasizes safety and accessibility for older adults. Our ‘round-the-clock care assists those who require support in their mobility.
Extra Support Post-Surgery, Illness, Injury, or Rehabilitation
Some older adults live relatively independently. However, unexpected factors like post-surgery care, illness, or injury, may require additional support with daily living during their recovery period.
The professional support provided in respite care can help your loved one adjust. Our nursing team is available 24/7 and is equipped with the knowledge and tools to promote the overall well-being of residents as they recover.
Avoid Caregiver Burnout
Caring for your loved one is rewarding, but it can also be stressful. Caregivers may find it difficult to admit they need a break from the physical and emotional toll of caregiving. It’s important to recognize signs of burnout, as it can affect the health and wellness of yourself and your loved one.
Caregiver burnout develops over time and causes increased stress, exhaustion, and irritation from the energy and effort required in caregiving. This burnout can affect the quality of care you can provide your loved one.
Preventing caregiver burnout includes allowing time for self-care and taking periodic breaks from the demands of caregiving. Respite care offers a solution by allowing caregivers to recharge knowing their loved one is in good hands.
As a primary caregiver, you may feel hesitant to ask for help. It’s important to be honest with yourself and accept that no one can be expected to do everything. Reach out to friends, other family members, or consider respite care to allow yourself a moment to recharge. You can still arrange regular visits, even during respite care.
Experience Community Living
Some families and older adults may access respite care to experience what life in community living may look like. There may come a time when your loved one will require additional assistance and support with daily living.
Exploring the care options available can help make the transition to community living easier. While in respite care, your loved one can connect with other residents, engage in social activities, and enjoy a variety of amenities they may not have access to at home!
What to Expect in Respite Care
Regardless of the duration of their stay, those staying in respite care receive the same level of care and have access to the same services and amenities as our long-term residents. These perks include:
- 24/7 on-site nursing care
- 24/7 assistance with daily living
- Nutritious meal preparation
- Fitness and health programs
- Exciting local outings
- Social activities and engagement
Schedule a Tour
Choosing to explore respite care is a proactive step towards managing the well-being of yourself and your loved one. Whether it’s for an overnight stay or planned time away, respite care provides a comfortable and safe environment for your loved one to enjoy the perks of community living.
Connect with our team at Kingston Healthcare to learn about our respite care communities and schedule a tour!
