A caregiver can be a spouse, partner, family member or anyone involved with assisting others with activities of daily living (ADL) or medical tasks. Paid caregivers tend to have formal training that allows them to provide a higher level of care than someone who just stepped into the role. At some point in time, all caregivers will need a break from their caregiving responsibilities.
Similar to how paid caregivers can take vacation time, respite care is a temporary or recurring form of outside care that is available to give unpaid caregivers a break. Respite care is available for reasons as varied as to take a vacation or simply to tackle personal errands. You don’t need an excuse to seek out assistance. Caregiving is hard work and the stress adds up.
Oftentimes, caregivers don’t take the time to check in on their own physical and mental health until it’s too late. If a caregiver is showing signs of burnout or exhaustion, they should consider respite care. Respite care is one of the best ways to take time off while ensuring your loved one receives proper care.
Types of Respite Care
Respite care can take place at adult day centers, in your own home or at senior living communities that offer extended or overnight stays for non-residents in need of care.
Adult Day Centers
Adult day centers are designed for older adults who need assistance. This form of respite care allows the individual requiring care to get out of the house and socialize with others. Adult day centers typically operate during a set range of hours during the day, similar to any business.
Meals and snacks may be provided as part of the costs for adult day centers. This form of respite care is a valid option for caregivers who have to work or run errands during the day.
In-Home Care Providers
In-home care providers allow your loved one to remain in their own home while they continue to receive care. It is possible that you have other family members or friends who you trust to relieve you of your caretaking responsibilities for the necessary amount of time. However, if you need to seek outside personal care providers, the cost for this service can quickly add up. Make sure to research and meet with any potential in-home care providers before signing off on them.
Residential Respite Care
Residential respite care is sometimes offered at group homes, hospitals, nursing homes and senior living communities. These locations will typically offer temporary care for varying lengths of time. Respite care at a continuing care retirement community, such as Friendship Village of South Hills, can potentially give caregivers the most relief out of all the available care options.
Benefits of Respite Care at a CCRC
Perhaps the greatest benefit of respite care for the caregiver and the individual receiving care is that it can actually improve the quality of life for both people. The benefits of respite care vary, but in most situations, it gives the caregiver time and space to relieve stress and recharge.
If you choose to seek out caregiving assistance at a senior living community, your loved one will enjoy engaging with team members and fellow residents. They may also have the opportunity to take part in activities available at the community. Other benefits for those receiving care at a CCRC include access to chef-prepared meals and 24/7 nursing care.
Meanwhile, the caregiver can use this time to take a vacation, attend to their own health needs, or complete tasks or work that they otherwise have not had the time or energy to do. You may even find you have time to maintain or develop new hobbies or interests that inspire you. Respite care at a CCRC can even provide you with new insight on how to better care for your loved one.
Respite Care in the Greater Pittsburgh Region
At Friendship Village of South Hills, we offer nursing and professional care in our health center. This includes respite care, which is offered under a private pay model at the daily skilled rate. We require a seven-day commitment for respite care to ensure the best continuity of care for your loved one.
We can support anyone that requires nursing or certified nursing assistant care. This allows you to fully take advantage of your free time knowing your loved one has access to 24/7 care.
If you’d like to learn more about our respite care services or how we can support you and your loved one, we’re happy to help. Please fill out the form below or give us a call at 724-941-3100.
