Respite Care for the Elderly
Many caregivers and family members are motivated by love and compassion to continue care for their loved ones. However, this can be exhausting for the care givers to provide constant care. Even professionals need a break. That’s why it’s so important to ensure caregivers get some relief.
Respite care is not only for the caregiver. It is also good for the one being cared for to have some variety and to get a break as well or some new scenery. Studies show that respite care for the elderly has been proven to improve the overall well being of both the care giver and the care receiver. It lowers stress, reduces depression, improves relationships, fewer behavioral problems and allows for better financial health for the caregivers. Plus it increases the chances of having time to sleep and relax before facing the next task at hand.
There are different types of respite care, adult day programs and in home care are a few of them. These are Monday to Friday 8-4pm. The loved ones get dropped off either for a full or half day of care. The programs typically provide, professional help designed to build and maintain current life skills, social opportunities, activates that help improve mobility and brain exercises, sometimes there is gardening and baking programs included. All staff are Continuing Care Assistants or Nurses. They are with passionate professionals who are ready to make a difference in their client’s lives.
These programs are typically offered within facilities whether they are nursing homes or assisted living. There are also one off organizations that offer them as well. Some programs you can find within the community, in churches, community groups and adult day cares or there are services where home care respite care is provided. That’s when a health care worker comes to your home and stay with the client, helping them meal prep or read and build puzzles with. Keeping them company and engaged while the care taker goes out and gets the errands done.
When you’re looking for the right kind of respite care there are some things that need to e taken into consideration.
- How long do you need care for and how often?
- Are you comfortable with in home respite care?
- How much can you afford to pay?
- Do you need additional services such as cooking, housekeeping or medical care?
- Are there mobility issues to take into account?
- Does your loved one require more social contact and physical activity?
Take a look around your local area to find the best respite care for you. Visit the locations if you’re not having in home care, do research on the in home care service you’re going with. Ensure whatever it is that you choose to do is going to be right for you.
To Learn more about Northwood’s Day Program please contact
Northwood Adult Day Program at 902.454.9706 or adultday@nwood.ns.ca
