Finding solutions for caregiving challenges often involves looking outside the family for support. While you may handle most of your senior loved one’s care, there may be times when you simply cannot always be there. Caring for your loved one without ever taking a break can also leave you vulnerable to burnout and begin to harm your relationship. Learning how in-home respite care works allows you to understand the benefit of having additional help with meeting your loved one’s needs.
How Respite Care Works
The first thing to know about respite care is that it simply involves having a professional caregiver come to your loved one’s home to stay with him or her while you or other family members are away. You can also stay in your loved one’s home while he or she receives respite care. For instance, you may need someone to help your loved one while you take a shower or even take a break in your room. Once your loved one begins to receive respite care, you can work with the agency to make sure the same caregiver or team of caregivers visits your loved one regularly so he or she gets to know the people who stop by to help.
Times to Arrange for Respite Care
Many caregivers use respite care to keep their loved ones safe while they manage other tasks, such as going to the doctor or a business meeting. While it’s nice to handle your other responsibilities, you can also use respite care to plan a few hours of relaxation for yourself, which is a great option if you’re experiencing signs of burnout or a decreasing social life. You can spend time with your spouse, children, or best friend while a respite caregiver keeps your loved one safe and comfortable.
Types of Services Respite Caregivers Offer
For many seniors, it’s just nice to spend a few hours talking to someone different. While respite caregivers can serve as companions, they’re professionally trained to perform a wide range of senior care duties. For example, they can help your loved one manage incontinence while respecting his or her dignity. They can also assist with things such as cooking and getting dressed so your loved one doesn’t have to deviate from his or her routine. When you arrange for respite care, make sure to mention if you need any special services. Letting the caregiver know things such as whether your loved one is mobile helps the caregiver plan the best ways to provide assistance throughout the day. If your loved one needs help with preparing meals, hygiene tasks, or other activities of daily living, consider hiring professional home care. La Mesa, CA, families can rely on Coast Care Partners to provide high-quality senior care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Benefits of Respite Care
Peace of mind is one of the biggest benefits of respite care. Instead of having to worry about leaving your loved one alone or arguing with a sibling about stepping in, you know exactly who to call when you need help. You also benefit from taking time away from your duties so you can refresh your spirit. Your loved one benefits from respite care as well. In addition to being kept safe and comfortable, seniors love having the opportunity to engage with a different person occasionally.
If you’re a family caregiver and you need a break from your caregiving responsibilities, it may be time to consider respite care. La Mesa families can trust their loved ones’ safety and comfort to the professional caregivers from Coast Care Partners. Whether you need hourly or 24-hour care for your loved one, reach out to us today at 619-354-2544 to schedule an appointment.
