Respite care is an invaluable resource and something that you or a loved one might benefit from as you get older. It is a homecare service that provides temporary relief and support for the primary carers and their loved ones. With the help of a trusted and reliable caregiver, you can take a break to recharge and take care of your own needs, which can often get neglected when you are busy taking care of someone else's. Respite care can reduce the emotional and physical strain of caring for a loved one, allowing you to return to your caregiving duties feeling refreshed and energised. 

Here we look at some of the ways that respite can help families when they need it the most:

Supports family caregivers

Respite care supports family caregivers by offering caring supervision when a family member or friend is unavailable. It is hugely reassuring as it allows those people to take time for themselves, knowing their loved one is in trusted hands. It may be that some short-term assistance is needed to cover a permanent carer's time off, such as live-in care for a few weeks whilst a family caregiver goes on holiday or has other commitments. Or it can be used as and when extra assistance is required on a one-off basis or set up as a weekly occurrence. It is a flexible homecare service that focuses on supporting the general care of the individual and their family caregivers so that there is a consistency of care, and everyone's needs are met without compromising their overall care.

Offers companionship

Companionship is crucial as we get older when there may be fewer opportunities to get out and about to see people. Respite care services ensure that loved ones and their families get the companionship they need by offering someone other than the client's primary caregiver. Seeing a fresh new face can help with any feelings of isolation and provides the chance to engage in activities they might not be able to do independently. Right At Home offers respite care in your local area and understands the importance of the connection between our caregivers and clients. We try as much as we can to ensure they match interests and personalities well. This enables a bond between the client and the caregiver based on friendship, enjoying conversations, and sharing stories and hobbies.

Promotes social interaction

Meeting new people and doing things we enjoy are important as we age. But sometimes, we only have a few opportunities to get involved or need to know where we can find out about such things. At Right At Home, we appreciate the significance of getting our clients out in their local community. One of our favourite places to go with our clients living with dementia is the 'Sunflower café' in Bordon. It offers a wonderful opportunity to meet with others for a chat in a friendly and welcoming environment. Supporting social interaction by engaging with individuals meaningfully helps physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. This helps to create a more fulfilling life experience overall.

Enables people to stay in their homes

As we age, one of our concerns can be our desire to stay in the sanctuary and familiarity of our homes for as long as possible. With the additional help from respite care, families and their loved ones can better focus on creating an environment in their homes where everyone feels safe and supported. Respite care assists with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, and preparing meals. This helps independence and means we can stay in our homes safely, even when our primary caregiver is unavailable. Having this enhances the quality of life of caregivers and their loved ones by allowing them to spend valuable time together when they can and appreciate the time apart. This time together helps build a stronger bond and allows them to reconnect on a deeper level. 

Now that you understand how respite care can help you and your family better, why not call Right At Home to find out more about the services we offer on 01420 481716.  One of our team will be happy to help answer any questions you may have.

Links to related blogs:

Alton & Bordon

Respite Care

What is companion care and why it’s so important

How to know if a homecare agency is reputable

How to know when your elderly parent needs assistance at home