Respite Care is a misunderstood and often misused term in health care. Many people believe that it involves a temporary rest or period of care for an elderly person. Actually, it is all about relief for the caregivers of the elderly, particularly those relatives who are caring for the elderly in their own homes.

Defined as “an interval of rest or relief” by the dictionary, respite care is intended to give harried caregivers an opportunity to take a break for a few days or weeks and recharge themselves. Sometimes the need for respite originates in a business trip that takes the caregiver out of town. Other times it is a planned family vacation that calls for respite care. And sometimes it is simply the need for caregivers to just get some space.

 

Respite Care is often undertaken by friends or family members of the caregiver who needs a break from the stress of care giving. But there are other times when professional assistance is needed for an extended period of time. That is when assisted living communities can provide an important service. Many facilities reserve at least one room for respite care, especially during the summer months when families are often traveling. Moreover, families can use this service as a kind of “trial period” to see how their loved one adjusts to living in assisted living on a more permanent basis. Caregivers should not hesitate to utilize this opportunity to give themselves a rest, and maybe plan for the future as well.

 

Town Commons Assisted Living in Howell, Michigan offers respite care as well as day care programs.