According to the Pew Research Center, about a quarter of U.S. adults are caring for aging parents while also raising children, More than half of employed caregivers also work full-time, and most family caregivers provide at least 20 hours of care each week, according to AARP. These ongoing demands can often lead to physical and mental burnout and health issues that not only impact the caregiver but also the person being cared for. Respite care services can help alleviate this stress and create a more positive environment for everyone involved.
What is Respite Care?
Respite care provides short-term care for family members so caregivers can rest, travel, and spend time with other family members and friends. Respite care can take place in the home or at an adult day care program for a few hours or up to a whole day, giving the caregiver the opportunity to focus on work, childcare responsibilities, running errands, or just getting out of the house for a change of scenery.
Respite care services are also provided at skilled nursing facilities and can last for a few days or a few weeks, giving the caregiver a chance to travel away from home for longer periods or take an extended break.
Why is Respite Care Important?
Respite care is vitally important for the mental, physical and financial health of caregivers. According to a study by the AARP Public Policy Institute, 69% of working caregivers have to rearrange their work schedule, decrease their hours or take an unpaid leave to meet their caregiving obligations. In addition, a study by The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America found that almost half of caregivers have experienced increased anxiety, depression or other mental health issues in the past year.
Respite services provide caregivers the opportunity to find a better balance between caring for a family member and their work and childcare obligations, relieving some of their stress. It also frees up some of their time to take care of their own physical and mental health needs, step away from their constant caregiving duties to refresh and recharge and reconnect with other friends and family members.
Respite care is beneficial for those being cared for as well, as it allows them to socialize with a wider variety of people like other caregivers and seniors at adult day care or senior living facilities. In addition, when their primary caregiver is well-rested and healthy, they will be able to provide more compassionate, focused care and the relationship dynamics may become more loving and positive.
What to Look for When Choosing Respite Care Services
When choosing respite care for a loved one, there are a few questions you should ask before making a commitment:
- Do the services offered align with their needs?
- Does the facility have the appropriate licenses and credentials?
- Do staff members have the training and qualifications necessary to provide a high level of care?
- Is the environment safe, clean and welcoming?
- What are the costs and what does insurance cover?
Trust in Trio for Compassionate Respite Care
Trio Healthcare communities offer personalized, compassionate respite care services in a welcoming environment. Our qualified, caring team is dedicated to supporting the health of our residents, treating each one with the dignity and respect they deserve. We offer nutritious food options, therapeutic recreation and social activities that help residents thrive and live their best lives – whether they are with us for a short period or a longer stay. In addition to respite care services, we offer long-term care, short-term rehabilitation, 24/7 skilled nursing care, and more.
For more information on our services, find a location near you.