Respite Care: Relief for a primary caregiver through temporary care for an individual that requires ongoing support—commonly for individuals with disabilities, illnesses, or the elderly.
Respite care allows families and primary caregivers to rest and recharge, making it essential for overall family well-being. Respite services can be found through adult care centers, home health aides, in-home nurses, assisted living facilities, and even local nonprofit organizations—like Covey. Through distributing responsibilities, making time for self-care and revitalization, and introducing a new and beneficial environment for an individual, respite care is available to support and prioritize the well-being of the entire family.
Allocate Responsibilities
Incorporating respite care allows family members to allocate their responsibilities in caretaking and create time for self-care or other fulfilling tasks. Utilizing a respite care resource reduces the responsibilities given to a sole caretaker, potentially alleviating mental or emotional distress. Additionally, respite care may also take care of tasks that are difficult to complete in a home setting: bathing, changing or cleaning medical equipment, physical therapy, exercise, etc.
Time for Self-Care
As a caregiver, setting time aside to prioritize your needs and self-care is essential for your personal well-being. However you may choose to spend your personal time, respite care services allow you the opportunity to have dedicated time put aside from caring for your loved one. This break can help reduce stress, prevent burnout, and restore your energy to nurture—because caring for yourself is just as important as caring for those you support. For caregivers with multiple children, respite gives them the opportunity to spend quality, dedicated time to other members of the family. Read more about the Emotional Impact of Disability on Siblings.
Change of Environment
Many respite care options are available at a well-equipped facility or location that can accommodate whatever needs your loved one requires—including extensive care and medical support as needed. Additionally, a change of scenery can greatly enhance the emotional and mental well-being of your loved one. Being cared for by others, engaging in social interaction, and accessing valuable resources can provide meaningful support for individuals with specific needs.
Respite Care at Covey
Covey is here to support you. We offer around-the-clock respite care at our two homes located in Appleton and Oshkosh, Wisconsin. No matter how long your loved one stays, we customize care to each individual’s unique wants and needs. We offer services such as:
- Planned activities and outings
- Medication assistance
- Behaviour management
- Nutritious meals
- Assistance with personal care
- And more!
Learn more about our respite care today.
