Respite care is temporary relief of caregiving duties in the home or at a facility.
There are respite care options to meet most situations and circumstances. Whether you need a break for a few hours, a day, or several weeks, respite care options are available to accommodate your needs.
Plan your respite services ahead of time. Planning ahead ensures services are available, and allows you to make arrangements before you need a break. Generally, you need to plan two to four weeks ahead of time.
It’s important to communicate your loved one’s needs, routines, and preferences to respite care providers. Detailed instructions will help providers maintain your loved one’s routine, making you and your loved one feel safe and confident during their stay.
Take advantage of resources such as local respite care programs, financial assistance, and caregiver support groups. You can find these resources at local senior centers, government health websites, organizations like AARP, or your local Area Agency on Aging.
