There are many types of senior care out there, but one of the largest challenges is that seniors and their family simply do not know what is available to them. Below is a closer look at some of the respite care services available to caregivers, all of which play a crucial role in keeping professional and family caregivers from burnout.

In-Home Caregiving

In-home caregivers can be scheduled on either an ongoing or sporadic basis. For example, when the kids are on summer break, it might be helpful to have a caregiver come 3 days a week, so you can take the kids out and about. Or if you are starting to feel stressed out or have a particularly busy couple of weeks, an in-home caregiver can help to lighten your load.

However, scheduling a caregiver for a few hours each day can provide caregivers with the “me time” they require to avoid burnout. Also consider scheduled overnight care, so that you can get the rest that you require.

Adult Day Care Centers

Even if you work from home, tending to your loved one’s needs during the day can get to be a bit too much—so consider adult day care. Each adult day care center’s requirements are different, but they often allow seniors to attend a set number of days each week or to attend sporadically. Many adult day care centers even provide transportation.

Seniors will need to meet a clear set of health and mobility requirements, but medication reminders and hands-on care are often available. Some even specialize in memory care.

As an added bonus, adult day care is great for socialization with peers!

Respite Care In A Nursing Home

Whether you are a family caregiver or a full-time in-home caregiver, sometimes you need some time off. Most nursing homes, and even many assisted living facilities, offer short-term residency to their local seniors. This means that you can head out on vacation without worry of your loved one being alone—or of their care falling by the wayside. This type of respite solution can range anywhere from a few days, to a full week—or even a month or two.
When utilized properly, respite care provides professional and family caregivers with the balance required to successfully avoid burnout. The key is to scheduling respite, before burnout begins to set in!