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Having an aging loved one who’s health and independence are declining, may mean that you are slowly having to take over the position of a primary caregiver. Taking on the responsibilities of medication administration, grooming, and keeping up their household can really take its toll over time. You might think that it is impossible to get a true break, but that’s where something called “Respite Care” can be a gamechanger.

What is Respite Care?

You may have never heard of the term “Respite Care,” or if you have, you might be confused on what it really is. Generally, respite care is when someone steps in to give a primary caregiver some short-term relief. The help can just be for an afternoon, several days, or even a couple weeks. Regardless, having respite care can mean you can take a short trip or even just go out shopping with friends for the afternoon while being assured that your loved one is in safe hands.

Benefits of using Respite Care

The main benefit of using respite care is ensuring that your mental health as a caregiver is being taken care of. It is just as important to care for yourself emotionally, as it is to physically care for your loved one. This service also helps when you are in a bind with needing to go out of town or take care of important matters. You may feel trapped when you need a few days away from being a caregiver, but good respite care will ensure that you can do what you need to do without worrying about your loved one being neglected.

Respite care can also provide some social interaction for your elderly family member that differs from their norm. This can help break up the monotony of daily life and help mentally engage your loved one.

Why Respite Care?

There are many reasons to use respite care. It can be for when you as a caregiver just need time to relax or to take a trip. It also is a great tool if you are taking care of someone with complicated health issues that prevent them from being alone for even the shortest lengths of time. If you are caring for someone with a brain injury, for example, you may not be able to leave the house to go to work or to your own personal appointments because your loved one can’t be alone for even a few minutes. That’s where respite care steps in to help you out.

Cost of Respite Care

Respite care is typically charged for by the hour or based on the number of days or weeks that services are used. Unfortunately, most insurance plans do not help cover the costs of this care, but Medicare may step in and help in some circumstances, so you will need to do some research when selecting a care provider. Respite care, like all elderly care, is not cheap, but it is so worth it for caregivers to have some freedom and relaxation time.

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Selecting a Provider

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There are many options for respite services, but it is crucial to be thorough when selecting your provider. You want to ensure that not only you, as the caregiver, are comfortable with the person providing the care, but that your loved one will feel safe and happy as well. Senior Check-In is happy to offer respite care that you can trust, and is always willing to talk through options for your situation to find the best solution.

Senior Check-In 

This information was provided by Senior Check-In in Indiana. Senior Check-In offers home care services including memory care, respite care, and companion care.

Interested in learning more about Senior Check-In? Contact us online, or call at (855) 420-1200.