What Is Respite Care?

Often, one of the biggest challenges for caregivers is the struggle to balance their caregiving duties with other aspects of their lives, such as work, family responsibilities, or even their own well-being. Caregivers who are stretched too thin may be at risk of caregiver burnout, which is known to have detrimental effects on the mental and physical health of the people who experience it.

Many caregivers rely on respite care to help them avoid caregiver burnout and balance the conflicting demands on their time. Respite care is any alternative arrangement that allows their loved one to still receive the help and attention they need, while temporarily allowing the primary caregiver a break. 

What Does Respite Care Look Like?

Respite care arrangements may vary in type, duration, and purpose. Some caregivers rely on respite care on a regular basis so that they can attend to other responsibilities; others make use of respite care only occasionally, when they leave town or go on vacation, or on an as-needed arrangement in the event of an emergency or scheduling conflict. Respite care may last anywhere from a few hours to several weeks, depending on the caregiver's situation. 

The type of respite care an individual receives depends on that person's needs and circumstances. For seniors who still live in their home and maintain a relatively independent lifestyle, respite care might involve having an in-home aide visit them, or spending time at an adult day care center. Alternatively, for elderly people who have serious or chronic health conditions, or who experience mobility difficulties, receiving respite care in a residential facility or having a live-in nurse might be a better option.