Respite care is the perfect option for family caregivers with senior loved ones who want to age in place. A qualified caregiver can come into your loved one’s home and help on an as-needed basis, making sure your parent receives high-quality care. If you’re thinking there might be negatives to choosing this type of care, find out why respite care is actually a beneficial service your family should consider using.
Safety
Accidents like slips and falls are some of the top causes of head trauma, broken bones, and other serious health issues in older adults. Therefore, safety should always be a priority. If you’re unable to check in on your loved one as often as you’d like, consider using respite care services to help your parent continue living independently and reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. The caregiver can make sure your loved one’s home is clutter free and safe, help with meal prep, and promote physical activity, which is important for good bone health. Knowing someone is regularly checking on your loved one’s wellbeing could provide you with peace of mind.
A trained professional caregiver can be an extremely valuable member of your caregiving team. There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional at-home care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.
Identity
Maintaining separate identities can be an issue for older adults and family caregivers because they often compromise on many of their individual preferences. For example, your parent may enjoy visiting the park a few days each week, whereas you prefer to take up outdoor activities in the backyard. If you use respite care, the caregiver can visit throughout the week and join in safe activities your loved one enjoys, ensuring your parent remains socially and physically active and maintains his or her identity, which can enhance your loved one’s mood and stave off cognitive decline. You can use the time off to participate in social activities you enjoy with friends and other family members.
Flexibility
Emergencies can occur, and if you don’t have a backup care plan, caring for your loved one could become extremely stressful. For example, if your loved one breaks his or her foot and needs to receive around-the-clock care while recovering, you may need to take time off from work. If that isn’t an option, respite care can be an ideal choice because it’s a flexible service you can use during your loved one’s recovery or until a new schedule can be agreed upon by family members and close friends. You can use respite care as often as you like, based on your loved one’s personal needs and finances.
Although it may be challenging to find reliable, highly rated homecare services, Montgomery, AL, families can turn to Home Care Assistance. Our respite and live-in caregivers are expertly trained to assist seniors with a wide array of important tasks, including cooking, bathing, light housekeeping, and exercise.
Renewed Energy
Providing high-quality care to a senior loved one can be draining. There may be days when you become mentally and physically exhausted and want to give up. Using respite care gives you time to catch up on rest or take extended breaks. During the time off, you can focus on activities and duties not related to your caregiving responsibilities. Being able to regroup can provide you with renewed energy when you return to the role. Even taking a few hours off each week can be therapeutic for family caregivers.
Family caregivers need to care for their own wellbeing. If you’re caring for an aging loved one and are feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring a professional caregiver to provide respite care. Montgomery families who want to prevent burnout can turn to Home Care Assistance. One of our professional caregivers can assist your loved one at home while you take a nap, go to work, run errands, or go on vacation. Reach out to us at Home Care Assistance if you need compassionate, professional respite care for your loved one. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (334) 593-3988.