Respite care can provide much-needed temporary relief for family caregivers. If you’re providing long-term care for a senior or disabled loved one, respite care ensures your family member receives high-quality assistance while you take time off or tend to other businesses. Learn the various respite services available and which one may be right for you.
4 Types of Respite Care
Informal Respite Care
Informal respite care is non-professional care provided by a family member, friend, or neighbor. For most people, this is their first option since the temporary care is provided by someone familiar to both you and your loved one. You may drop your family member off at the person’s home, or the person can come to your residence.
Adult Day Services
Adult day services are usually available at a low cost, or via donation. The care is usually provided by existing establishments like churches and city-funded community centers. Limited medical care may be provided.
These services provide social opportunities for your senior loved ones to interact with other seniors and form their own social circles. We can’t stress enough how important this is from a physical health perspective.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, people over the age of 50 who experience chronic social isolation have a 50% greater risk of dementia and a 29% higher risk of heart disease.
Residential Care
Residential care is continued care from professionals in an assisted living center or senior community. You can arrange for one-off stays or enroll in weekly or daily plans. Seniors enrolled in residential care will have access to professional caregivers who can provide around-the-clock care, from providing meals to medication distribution.
In-home Care
You can seek out in-home respite care from professional agencies. A caregiver will come to your home and provide essential care while you’re away. This is a good option if you’re regularly away for work or other out-of-the-home commitments.
Some people may also scour social media for freelance caregivers. Keep in mind individual caregivers for hire may not have certifications or medical knowledge, so it's best to opt for professional agencies.
What to Look for When Choosing a Respite Care Provider
Regardless of the option you choose, it’s important that your senior loved one is in an adequate facility with one or more trusted individuals present. Here are some tips to help you find a compatible respite care service.
Get Acquainted with the Setting
If opting for respite care out of the home, take a tour of the facility. This applies even if receiving respite care from a relative or friend’s residence. Set a time to visit the location with your senior loved one. Make a mental note of the place, such as:
- Does the place have cable television with your loved one’s favorite programs?
- Does the place have ample room? (really important for seniors with mobility issues)
- Does the setting contain age-in-place features, such as grab bars in the bathroom?
Get Acquainted with the Staff
Arrange a time to meet the caregivers. Both you and your senior loved one should have a good impression. Does the staff appear friendly? Helpful? What certifications do they hold? Is there an immediate rapport between them and your senior relative? You can also request to speak with their previous clients if necessary.
Why Choose Home Instead for Respite Care in Lafayette, LA?
When you choose Home Instead for respite care services, you can have peace of mind knowing:
- Our caregivers are thoroughly screened, trained, and dedicated to providing compassionate care.
- We tailor our services to meet each senior's unique needs and preferences
- You'll have a trusted partner to support you and your loved one, providing relief and reducing caregiver stress
- Our services are flexible and can be scheduled on an as-needed basis or as part of an ongoing care plan
Need Respite Care in Lafayette, LA?
Caring for a senior family member is a full-time job and can be taxing physically and mentally. If you need a helping hand, let Home Instead provide the temporary reprieve you need. Our caregivers provide home care services, from Alzheimer’s care to hospice support for seniors wherever they call home.
Fill out the form below to learn how our compassionate caregivers can provide the respite care you need. Take the first step toward getting support and relief today.
Are you interested in a caregiver position? We have excellent caregiving opportunities available.
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