Needing a Break Isn’t Selfish: The Vital Role of Respite Care

Providing care for a loved one is a noble (and sometimes thankless) task. According to the CDC*, 24.4% of adults aged 45 to 64 are caregivers for a friend or family member with a health problem or disability. These caregivers are often the backbone of providing long-term care in people’s homes. Because of them, elderly or disabled people can live at home independently for longer. Caregivers help with many daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, paying bills and shopping. But who is taking care of the caregivers?

If you are a caregiver, you understand that finding time to think about your own needs can be daunting. Perhaps you have a busy, full-time job or are also caring for children. Sometimes, it feels like there is barely enough time to handle your responsibilities, and your own needs often take a back seat. However, when caregivers neglect their own self-care, this can lead to burnout – feelings of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion – that make it hard to carry on.

The Solution

Respite care can provide a much-needed break for dedicated caregivers struggling to balance all their responsibilities. Respite care provides short-term relief for primary caregivers so they can take a break and care for themselves, whether it is to run errands, visit the doctor, travel or spend time with friends or family. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup, and it’s important for caregivers to consider their own needs so they can better care for their loved ones.

You may wonder what the respite care experience will be like for your loved one. Facilities that provide respite care, such as the Trio Healthcare locations across Virginia, consider each individual’s healthcare and social needs. Because skilled nursing facilities have nursing staff, they can provide the medical care that your loved one requires and ensure ample opportunities for socialization during their stay.

Trio Healthcare facilities offer 24/7 respite care services, which means you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved one will be taken care of while you step away – whether it’s for a few days or a few weeks. For more information on respite care services, contact a location near you.

* https://www.cdc.gov/aging/caregiving/caregiver-brief.html