Benefits of Respite Care For You And Your Loved One 

 

Friends and family members are often the primary caregivers of loved ones who need help with everyday living. We all want to care for our loved one for as long as possible ensuring that we provide the best care we possibly can. However, this care doesn’t always come from ourselves all of the time, it can’t.

 

Unfortunately, the physical, emotional and economic burdens on family caregivers can frequently become incredibly overwhelming without some form of support. If your loved one isn’t at the stage of their life where they should go into a care home there are lots of different options available to you. One of the most easily accessible and incredibly effective options is respite care, and we have put together everything you need to know about this type of care.

 

What is respite care?

 

To put it simply, respite care means taking a break from caring, while the person you care for is looked after by someone else. Respite care is a regularly scheduled service meant to meet non-medical care needs and can be provided both inside and outside your loved one’s home. 

 

There are also many different options when it comes to respite care. These range from getting a carer to sit with your loved one for a few hours, to a short stay in a care home so you can go on holiday. Whatever type of relief you need respite care is there to provide you with the support you require. 

 

How can we both benefit from respite care?

 

There are so many benefits to accepting help through respite care. Many devoted caregivers can be resistant to giving up their responsibilities, worrying that it may be a sign of weakness. This couldn’t be further from the truth. We have highlighted some of the main benefits of respite care for both you and your loved one. 

 

 

• Renewal and relaxation 

 

 

We understand that you want to be there for your loved one as often as you can but, this can become very stressful for you. Simply taking some time to go for a walk, have a coffee or do something for yourself can instantly decrease your heart rate and improve your mood.

 

Without realising the stress you feel can impact the care you give your loved one too. Sometimes you need to take a step back and have some time for yourself too. It is important to re-energise every now and then. 

 

 

• Space

 

 

You may love each other dearly but even the closest of people sometimes need space. Taking a break from each other can allow you both to relax and enjoy time to yourself. 

 

It isn’t uncommon for your loved one to feel like a burden and having this space also helps them to feel less needy. It means that you can go back to enjoying your time together and discuss what you have done apart, bringing back some normality to both of your lives. 

 

 

• Identity 

 

 

It is so important to remember that you aren’t just a caregiver, you have a life too and other responsibilities. We understand that it can be incredibly difficult but you must be purposeful in maintaining your sense of self, you are important too. 

 

Having some time away each week will allow you to focus on yourself, your goals, your life and the things you enjoy. You must remember that you have the right to enjoy life and have absolutely no reason to feel guilty by doing so. 

 

 

• Perspective 

 

 

Many people that have accepted respite care have been able to see things in a different light after taking some time away. This time often allows people to see more clearly and keep things in proper perspective. 

 

Having a new way of seeing things can help you to think of better ways of doing things and other resources you can tap into. Overall it will benefit both you and your loved one, bringing positive and necessary change.

 

Who do I turn to for respite care?

 

You can sometimes get respite care through the NHS, your local council or even from volunteers. However, many people choose to source private respite care for their loved ones. This allows them to handpick who will be helping look after their family. 

 

If you are looking for private respite care for the elderly then please don’t hesitate to contact Companions of London. We provide in-home respite care for anyone who may require our help and we work with families to support them in any way we can. To find out more about our team or respite care costs please get in touch today.