Respite care for caregivers of dementia patients

October 1, 2023 Respite Care

Respite care for caregivers of dementia patients

Caring for a friend or loved one living with dementia can be very overwhelming. It can take up large amounts of time leaving carers feeling stuck and tired. You may believe that you should be able to ‘do it all’. Seeking help does not make you a failure. It’s important to remember that respite services benefit the person with dementia as well as the caregiver.

What is respite care?

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

Respite care can help you as a caregiver by providing a new environment or time to relax. It’s a good way for you to take time for yourself. This time allows you to be a better carer for your loved one whilst not overdoing it.

What are the benefits of respite care?

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 care 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 services:

Companion services beyond basic companionship

While offering a friendly conversation and emotional support is paramount, companion service can go further:

  • Engaging activities – Anything from planning to participating in activities tailored to individual’s needs, such as social outings, hobbies, memory exercises etc.
  • Socialisation – Connecting with friends, family, or community groups through visits, phone calls, or video chats.
  • Assistance with errands: – support with tasks, such as shopping, appointments or anything else needed.

Activities of daily living

These provide support with essential daily tasks, which could be challenging for individuals with dementia:

  • Bathing – this can be any preferred way of personal hygiene, showering or bathing.
  • Dressing – aid with selecting clothes, getting dressed and undressed.
  • Toileting – assistance with toileting needs, which includes incontinence care.
  • Grooming – support with shaving, brushing hair, and oral hygiene.
  • Household tasks – help with transfers, walking or using mobility aids, such as walkers or wheelchairs.
  • Mobility assistance – assisting with laundry, meal preparation, light cleaning etc.

Skilled care services

  • Medication management – medication reminders, administering medication as prescribed and monitoring side effects, including alerting healthcare professionals about any concerns.
  • Wound care – support with changing dressing and monitoring infection.
  • Vital signs observations – monitoring blood pressure, pulse, temperature and respiration rate as directed.
  • Post-surgical care – assistance during post-operation recovery.

How can Cavendish Homecare help?

At Cavendish Homecare we are experts in providing respite homecare for clients who want to remain in their own homes. When it comes to your health and well-being, choosing the right homecare package is of utmost importance and navigating this process can be overwhelming. With Cavendish Homecare by your side, you’ll have the support you need to remain safely at home while enjoying elevated health and wellbeing.

If you would like to enquire about our respite care, contact us on, 02030085210 or email us at info@cavendishhomecare.com.