It can be a regular break or a one-time event. Respite can be provided in the home or at a care facility. Let us take an example to understand the meaning of respite care better. Suppose in your home there is one person who is sick or disabled and you take care of him 24×7 and you need a small break to enjoy your own life, so respite care is the key to unlocking your busy schedule. Depending on the person’s health condition it can be divided into two parts: long-term and short-term respite care. 

Types of respite care

• Home. In this, you can hire a person from the organisation on a temporary basis or permanent basis based on the condition of the patient. In this, the respite care providers will take care of and live with you 24×7. This kind of service allows you to maintain your usual routines and comforts of your own home while receiving the necessary assistance. They become your friend or companion and all of your work is done by them, even the smaller ones. They help you with medication, washing your clothes, bathing, dressing and food. There are varieties of home respite care providers like skilled health care, personal care provider, trained staff and volunteers.
• Out of home. The adult day centre is an out-of-the-home type of respite care where you can take your loved ones to these centres for a few hours or even a day. Adult day centre has skilled workers who can help the patient in different classes like exercise, games, singing and food. These centres are of two types – one is paid and the other is non-profit. These centres will provide three times meals and a positive environment. Another type of out-of-home respite care is residential respite care like MAACG respite care. In this, you can shift your seniors who cannot take care of themselves to an apartment or residence for a few weeks where they have trained staff who can take care of them and for a few days you can feel free to go on holiday.  Similarly, services like ABC respite care for elderly can provide a safe and comfortable environment for your loved ones.
  
• Emergency. Emergency respite care comes into play when unexpected circumstances or situations arise, and you need immediate support. This type of care can be provided at home or in a facility depending on the situation and service provider. Emergency respite care can be due to various reasons like sudden illness of the primary caregiver, a natural disaster, or an unexpected event that requires the caregiver’s presence. Organisations offering such services usually have trained and professional staff available 24/7 to step in on short notice. These providers are skilled in handling various emergencies and can provide the required care to the patient, including medical assistance, personal care, and emotional support. Such services aim to provide relief and peace of mind to caregivers, ensuring that their loved ones are in safe hands even in sudden situations.

Benefits of respite care

• Relaxation. You can feel free to go to the mall for shopping or a library or movie theatre. You can do anything that pleases you, relax your mind and decrease your heart rate.
• Energy. To do things effectively in your daily life or busy life, you need to be energised. Even the vehicle won’t run on empty.
• Freedom. Everyone wants a little space in their life – respite care gives you that chance to enjoy your independence.
• Social engagement and identity. There is a big problem for caregivers in that they become isolated from society due to responsibility. They don’t have enough time to hang out with their friends and relatives, and they lose their identity, but respite care helps a lot.

Final thoughts

Everyone in the world experiences challenges, and it is estimated that 1 in 4 individuals grapple with mental or physical health concerns. Ageing, in particular, can present its own unique vulnerabilities, necessitating an increased level of care and support. Therefore, it’s crucial that we nurture our elderly loved ones, providing them with the attention, comfort, and care they need. Doing so not only enhances their well-being but also enriches their lives, enabling them to live with happiness and fulfillment.

Ellen Diamond, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.