The Benefits of Respite Care for Family Carers

Caring for a loved one can be deeply rewarding, but it also presents significant challenges. For those providing continuous care with little or no support, the responsibilities can become overwhelming, often leading to physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. This is where respite care plays a crucial role. It not only offers carers a much-needed break, but it is also a great opportunity for their loved one to receive person-centred care, activities tailored to their interests and delicious food. Respite care has many benefits for family carers and this article aims to answer commonly asked questions highlight key benefits and explain how to arrange a respite break.

What is respite care

You may be wondering, what does respite mean? In simple terms, respite is a period of relief or rest, which is precisely what it offers to carers.

Respite care or as it’s often called by mistake – restbite care, is a short-term solution that temporarily relieves carers of their duties. It can be provided in various settings, including at home, at a day centre or in a care home. There are many benefits to family carers when booking a respite break in a care home. It allows carers to relax, re-energise or even take a well-deserved holiday, all while having peace of mind that their loved one is receiving excellent care.

What’s included in a respite care stay at a care home?

A short stay in a care home will include all the benefits of home with additional services and companionship. A care home offering respite care will be able to offer bathing or showering as well as other personal care, support with medications and diet and nutrition. Even those with specialist dietary requirements such as swallowing difficulties can be cared for in this way.

The care team in a care home will also be trained in moving and handling and will offer a wide range of stimulating activities to engage the individual staying in the home. Meeting other residents is also a plus point as friendships can be formed during this type of stay.

How long can respite care last?

The duration of respite care is highly flexible, depending on the needs of both the carer and their loved one. It can range from a few hours to several weeks. For example, a day centre may be used to provide respite care whilst the carer is at work or a short stay in a care home so they can take a couple weeks off to spend with family and friends.

Where the respite or short stay is a matter of a day or less, this is sometimes referred to as a ‘sitting service’. Sitting services can be offered in home or in a care home where the individual may also benefit from a shower or bath at the same time. This type of respite care can be helpful for family carers when they are balancing a career whilst caring for a loved one.

What are the benefits of respite care for family carers?

Respite care offers significant benefits to carers, with one of the most important being the prevention of exhaustion and burnout. Studies have shown that respite care can lead to improvements in both the mental and physical wellbeing of carers, particularly for those looking after someone living with dementia. Carers often report reduced symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress-related health issues after a respite break.

Not only does respite care improve carers wellbeing but many find that their overall quality of care improves following a period of respite. Utilising respite care can also help prevent feelings of isolation. Carers often juggle caring for a loved one with work and family commitments, leaving little time for themselves. A short break can provide an opportunity to reconnect with friends and family, engage in fulfilling hobbies, and meet social needs. This time for self-care is crucial in preventing resentment and avoiding burnout.

What are the benefits of respite care for the elderly?

Respite care is not only beneficial to carers, but also provides significant advantages for the elderly, who equally experience the positive effects of these breaks. It’s common for a loved one with care needs to feel like a burden, which may lead to feelings of frustration and guilt. This is where respite care can help reduce or remove those thoughts.

Beyond providing emotional relief, respite care can greatly enhance the wellbeing of elderly individuals. According to the study The Effects of Respite Care in Care Homes on Older Adults: A Review of the Literature, participating in social activities and interactions during a respite stay in a care home has been shown to boost happiness and alleviate feelings of loneliness.

Additionally, regular meals together with activities for mind, body and soul, can help maintain physical health, mobility, enhanced cognitive function and delay cognitive decline. The change of environment and increased social interactions can also be mentally and emotionally uplifting, providing a sense of community and belonging.

For those living with dementia, respite care in a care home can help reduce psychological and behavioural symptoms, such as agitation, anxiety, and depression. Moreover, respite care in a care home offers a fantastic opportunity to experience what life would be like if a permanent move is considered. Many who try a respite stay often decide to move in full-time, finding the social interactions, trained teams, nutritious meals, and safe environment provide a fulfilling life.

What are the different types of respite care?

Whether you need a break for a few hours or a few weeks, there are various respite care options available to suit your and your loved one’s needs:

• Care home: A short stay in a care home offers comprehensive care, including person-centred care, nutritious meals, activities promoting physical and mental wellbeing, and plenty of social interaction. This option is ideal if you need a break for a week or more and offers a reassuringly robust respite care option for families as it includes companionship and lots of 24-hour support for nursing, dementia and residential care requirements.
• In-home: Care professionals visit your loved one at home to take over caregiving duties, which can range from a few hours to several days.
• Day centre: Centres provide support during specific hours, making them a suitable option if you need respite while you’re at work or attending to other commitments.
• Emergency respite: If you suddenly find yourself unable to care for your loved one, urgent respite care services ensure their needs are met promptly.

How to stay in touch with a loved one during their respite break?

Many care homes will help you stay in touch during the stay. In addition to being able to visit in person, you can also stay in touch by phone, with virtual calls or even through eCards sent to and from your loved one. An eCard option is particularly lovely if you plan to go away and want to send a ‘postcard’ during your

How do I arrange respite care?

If you feel you and your loved one will benefit from respite care, follow our step-by-step guide for booking respite care.

• Assess your needs: Determine the length of time you need and what type of respite care will best suit your loved one. Try and plan ahead if you can. Many care homes will allow short stays to be booked in advance.
• Consider funding: It’s important to understand who pays for respite care. If you are paying for the stay yourself, then you can arrange your own respite care at any time. If you need support from public funded sources, you will need to speak to your social work team to understand whether this option is available for you.
• Research providers: Look for reputable respite care providers in your area by checking reviews, reading care regulator reports, and seeking recommendations from family, friends, and community members. Visit the facilities where possible to get a better understanding of the care they provide.
• Get in touch: Contact suitable care providers to discuss your loved one’s needs, availability, and costs. Prepare questions in advance to ensure you make the right decision—questions might include the activities provided, how dietary requirements are accommodated, and the specific types of care available, such as dementia respite care.
• Care assessment: Once you’ve selected a provider, they will create a care plan with your input, covering medical requirements, dietary needs, and personal preferences. The care plan ensures your loved one receives excellent care and helps them feel happy and comfortable during their respite break.
• Schedule regular breaks: Consider booking regular respite care to maintain both your and your loved one’s wellbeing.

Why choose Four Seasons Health Care Group for respite care?

In our brighterkind and Four Seasons care homes, our teams pride themselves on providing excellent respite care. Every short-stay resident is treated the same as our permanent residents. This includes receiving excellent personalised care from our dedicated teams. Access to our activities programme, which we call Magic Moments and delicious and nutritious meals prepared by our highly trained Chefs.

We Prioritise Wellbeing

Our Magic Moments programme is designed to stimulate the mind, body and soul to support all-round wellbeing whilst tailoring activities to residents’ interests. Popular group activities in our homes include pet therapy, day trips, music and movement, and virtual classes via by our exclusive Magic Moments Portal.

We are Passionate About nutrition

Our Chefs are passionate about providing residents with healthy and delicious meals to support their overall wellbeing. Our carefully crafted menus provide residents with a wide selection of meals and we can also accommodate dietary requirements including IDDSI or modified food choices for those with swallowing difficulties.

We Encourage Communication

Residents and families also have access to our eCard system, enabling residents and families to upload photos and send electronic cards to each other.

Whether you’re planning a holiday, want to spend quality time with family and friends or keen to try respite care due to the benefits for family carers and loved ones, a short stay in one of our homes could be the perfect option.

Your health and wellbeing are just as important as the care you provide, so why not take a well-deserved break?

Sources

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Brodaty, H., Thomson, C., Thompson, C., & Fine, M. (2005). Why caregivers of people with dementia and memory loss don’t use respite. The Gerontologist, 45(5), pp. 673-679. doi: 10.1093/geront/45.5.673.

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