What is Respite Care?

Respite care provides short-term relief for caregivers who need a break to take care of their own needs. Types of respite stays range for just part of a day or for several days or weeks. Care can be provided in a healthcare facility, assisted living community, in home, or at an adult day center for a few hours.

Although there are several caregiving options available, respite care is intended for short-stays or specific recovery routines a person needs as recommended by a doctor. Cost will vary from location and depend on the level of care required. This should be discussed when looking into respite care options. Be sure to inquire about what all is included with the cost and if there are services that can be added on as an additional expense.

If you have a loved one that needs care and you or your caregiver needs to leave town, respite care offers the right level of care services while you are away. This article could be a good resource center for your consideration in respite care.

picture of caregivers talking to children and family about support programs for respite care

Respite Care Services

There are several reasons to look into respite care that may be recommended by health care providers. If your family caregiver needs some temporary relief, you may want to check with senior communities that offer respite stays.

The existing caregiving responsibilities should also be communicated with family and the respite caregivers to provide familiar and proper care. This is a great way for the the caregiver to explain any special needs and provide any appropriate resources for the best individualized care.

Respite services should include several options depending on the level of care needed. Here are some common reasons for the need of respite care:

  • Seniors need extra assistance to recover from a surgery, illness, or injury.
  • Regular caregivers must travel or need time to themselves.
  • Seniors wish to try out a senior community in order to determine if senior living is right for them.
  • Family and/or friends who vacation or own a second home in an area where they wish to have a loved one nearby who has a need for focused care.

In a health care community, respite care should provide the same level of care and services as the long term residents. This should include features and amenities for the community, medication management, meals, personal care services, laundry and more provided by the caregiver.

If your loved one is undergoing illnesses and injuries on a regular basis and respite care frequent, it may be time to consider assisted living as a viable option for the best care going forward.

It is recommended to communicate with your loved one about the decision that is being made for their best care. You may want to explain respite services and how they are temporary. It may help to explain that during their stay, they will be cared for in the same manner they are accustomed. The short-term stay also provides them with a break from the daily chores while they focus on their recovery.

image of caregiver offering child a break from caregiving for parent with respite care.

Finding Respite Care Services

Locating good options for respite care with openings can be difficult. it is commended to ask several questions with the providers about availability and onboarding details.

By explaining to your loved one the benefits of respite programs and specialized care, they can have peace-of-mind knowing they are properly cared for in a safe environment. If they have a firm understanding why they need to stay there and what assistance the caregivers offer, it involves them with the decisions while maintaining their dignity.

Your health care provider may recommend certain communities and provide information on support groups and other respite care resources. When you and your family member are ready to find respite care providers, ensure they have a fully trained staff and offer overnight stays.

Depending on their needs, caregiving can involve programs and planned activities to promote more energy and involvement in the community. Many even develop new friends and positive experiences with these programs.

Overall, you will want to locate a community that offers great care, rest and service programs. Friends and families should be able to visit loved ones in person and even enjoy meals together. Transportation service options should also be available in case of appointments outside from the community.

picture of care team working with other families with developmental disabilities for in home respite care options.

Waterside Landing

If you are searching for respite care in Margate, Florida, Waterside Landing offers several options as a respite care provider. In addition to permanent living arrangements, Waterside offers short-term respite care stays, other caregivers do not always offer this option.

Their Residents can take advantage of the elegantly furnished suites that are welcoming and provide a home away from home feeling for your loved one. The level of caregiving offered from Waterside is focused on the individual’s needs communicated with the family and healthcare provider.

Their respite care services provide the peace-of-mind knowing the residents are in the same capable hands and experiencing the same quality of care, services and amenities as their long term residents. Many short-term visitors decide to make the choice to become full-time residents based on their positive experiences during their stay where their family is able to visit.