Why is respite care important?

What is respite care?

Respite care is designed to provide relief for families or others who undertake the care of a family member or friend. Furthermore, it can be a useful break for anyone receiving care. Sometimes it can be given in emergencies, whilst other times it is planned.

Studies reveal that those people who act as primary caregivers for family members tend to be at a higher risk for stress-related health conditions such as depression and various chronic diseases. Respite care can give a good need respite to those providing this care and therefore reduce their risk of illness.

The importance of rest for carers

Temporary or cover care is often an essential part of a care plan. This is so that the carer can take time off and take care of their own needs. Respite homecare can give carers the chance to catch up on sleep, address their health issues, or simply have time to relax. If you’re a carer, finding the right care providers for temporary care needs is essential. Cavendish Homecare helps ensure that your loved one’s care needs are taken care of while you take a well-deserved break.

Respite care – tips for carers

• Plan ahead – New environments can be challenging for a loved one needing care. It can help to set up a regular replacement care routine, to help both you and your loved one adjust. Some may find it helpful to use respite care in the early stages of their caregiving duties. Or before they feel it is needed, rather than at the later stages or if a crisis or emergency arises. This can give you a feel for respite care, as well as a chance to try different types.
• Consider short breaks or short visits to start with – This will mean you, your loved one and those providing respite care can get to know each other. It may help to build confidence before a longer visit.
• Arrange a needs assessment – If both you and your loved one have an assessment of needs, it will help you both to know what you need and the options you have.
• Talk about respite care – Some people find openly talking about respite care helpful. It will give both you and your loved one, a chance to discuss your options and your feelings. You know your loved ones best, so will know the best way to talk to them.
• Talk to the new carers – It’s important for the new carer to get to know your loved one and what works for them. Talking to them about their needs and their routine can help. For care at home, it can help for your loved one and the new carer to spend time together (possibly with you to start with) so they get to know each other and build a relationship before the respite care starts.
• Talk to others – Talking to other carers about your feelings can help. They may be able to give tips and suggestions. However, it’s important to remember what works for one person may not work for another.
• Focus on the benefits – You may be worried that a respite care arrangement won’t provide the same level of care as you can, or that your loved one will become unsettled. It is natural to be concerned but try to focus on how the break will support you in your caring role.
• Keep trying – Respite care is an adjustment for everyone. If something doesn’t work or doesn’t go to plan, try not to give up.

Respite care for people with care needs  

A loved one who has care needs may also benefit from having someone different tend to their needs for some time. Respite care can offer a change of scenery, routine, and people to interact with. Routines can also be followed as closely as possible so that your loved ones don’t have their lives disrupted too much.

Why choose us?

At Cavendish Homecare we provide personalised Respite Homecare by Registered Nurses and Carers to give you a temporary break from care responsibilities you may have. If you would like to discuss your respite care needs, please do not hesitate to call us at 020 3008 5210 or email at info@cavendishhomecare.com