As the main carer for your loved one, you may be hesitant to hand over the caring duties to others for any length of time – this is understandable, as you put so much time and effort into providing appropriate care that it can be difficult to let go of control and trust others. However, there will be times when you need to place your loved one in the care of others, so getting comfortable with the idea of respite care is necessary. To help ease any concerns you may have, we have compiled a list of ways respite care benefits elderly people.
Providing professional care and support
Whilst the care you are providing is supportive, if you are not a medical professional you may be concerned that you are not providing your loved one with the medical care they expressly require. Respite care gives you peace of mind as all staff are familiar with the care needs for a large range of age associated conditions. Medical staff are also on call either on the premises or close by. A stay at respite care can be an opportunity to re-evaluate your loved ones needs and re-adjust so you can feel more confident in the care you’re providing at home.
Fighting loneliness and isolation
Loneliness and isolation are major problems facing elderly people in Australia, which is why aged care residences often do as much as possible to promote socialisation. You will find that respite care offers your loved one a great opportunity to connect with others of a similar age in various ways, including:
Group Activities
Many respite care programs offer group activities and events, such as exercise classes, games, and outings. These activities provide opportunities for elderly people to socialise and interact with other residents, staff, and volunteers.
Meal Times
Meal times can also provide opportunities for social interaction. Respite care programs often provide communal dining areas where residents can socialise and enjoy meals together.
Shared Living Spaces
Respite care homes typically have shared living spaces, such as lounges and activity rooms. These spaces provide opportunities for residents to socialise and interact with each other.
Aged care residences that offer respite care are often also involved with community programs that connects residents with their wider community, which can fight loneliness and isolation by helping create a firmer sense of belonging within their wider community.
Offering a change of scenery
Everyone loves to travel, go to new places, see new sights – elderly people are no different. Those with higher care needs who require a carer often don’t get to see new places or do new things, respite care offers them this opportunity in a way that is safe and supported. The new environment they are entering will help alleviate any boredom they could be experiencing as it gives them an exciting deviation from their regular routine. Elderly people will also enjoy the opportunity to meet with new people and participate in activities they may not have had the opportunity to try before.
Supporting carers
Whether you take advantage of respite care for a short period or a long period, you will find the additional time it gives you in your day has an immense benefit for you and, ultimately, your loved one. Having breaks from providing care allows you to:
Reduce Your Mental Load
Providing full time care is stressful and increases the mental load you’re carrying. Having periodic breaks allows you to destress and focus on your mental health, which will allow you to continue to provide a better quality of care for longer – you can’t provide appropriate care while needing care yourself.
Lets You Focus on Other Responsibilities
Sometimes life gives you more responsibilities than any person can handle at once, respite care can support you by taking over the responsibility of caring for your loved one while you handle other things, like work or other relatives. This means that in hectic times, your loved one can continue receiving a high level of care.
Improves Quality of Life
We’re always thinking about quality of life for those we’re caring for, but have you considered your own quality of life? Being wholly responsible for others is stressful and often means you don’t take time for yourself. You can take advantage of the services offered by respite care to give yourself a break and focus on your own life and leisure – improving your own quality of life will in turn improve the quality of life of the person you’re caring for as you will be happier.
Respite Care at Rural Northwest Health
We have two residential aged care facilities at Rural Northwest Health, Yarriambiack Lodge and Hopetoun Nursing Home – both these facilities offer respite care for short and long term stays. If you’re considering choosing Rural Northwest Health to provide respite care for your loved one, please review our pamphlet to get more information or contact us to speak to a representative.