As a care partner for a loved one with Memory Loss, it is natural to need respite care. With all of the love and best intentions in the world, caring for another person 24/7, regardless of their physical and mental condition, can be overwhelming and lonely.
One study under the Manitoba Centre for Nursing and Health Research found there is a global need for respite services. Based on evidence collected, it was shown that these services can help reduce the physical, emotional, and mental stress of care partners while promoting sensory stimulation for the person living with Memory Loss.
What Is Respite Care?
When care partners need a break from the physical and emotional demands of caring for a loved one living with Memory loss, or any illness for that matter, respite care can provide much-needed relief. Respite care can take many forms, from in-home services that allow care partners to take a break while still remaining in the home, to short-term stays in Memory Care environments or other care homes.
In some cases, respite care may even be covered by insurance. No matter what form it takes, respite care can give care partners the opportunity to recharge and return to their caregiving duties refreshed and rejuvenated.
The Importance of Respite Care
Why is respite care important? For those close to the situation, the answer is evident. It provides an avenue for care partners to re-energize, refresh, and attend to their own stress or negative emotions without affecting the person they are caring for. When care partners are well-rested, they will be able to provide better care for their loved ones. Below are some reasons why respite care is important.
Provides Relief and Time to Reset
Caring for a person living with Memory Loss is time-consuming and leaves little room for personal enjoyments or proper sleep. Memory Loss has no set schedule or clock and individuals living with Memory Loss often need round the clock attention. Having respite care provides the care partner a chance to rest their minds and bodies, whether that takes the form of uninterrupted sleep, a meditation class, or even a leisurely walk.
Provides a Welcome Change
Respite care can be beneficial to both the care partner and the person living with Memory Loss. Day after day both individuals are, for the most part, in a routine that can become monotonous. For the care partner, having to perform the same tasks and repeat answers can weigh on their emotional and physical state, leading to caregiver burnout. Having a change of pace in the daily activities once in a while can give the care partner and the person living with Memory Loss a welcome change.
Offers a New Perspective
Caring for another person is a full-time job, and much like other jobs, having a fresh pair of eyes can be beneficial to the care partner and the person living with Memory Loss. Respite care at a specialized centre is provided by trained professionals who have experience and knowledge in Memory Loss. Through hands-on social and mental programs, the person living with Memory Loss experiences new routines and activities. From this, the care partner also learns new techniques that can enhance care for their loved one.
Gives the Care Partner Renewed Energy
Regardless of the physical and mental condition of the person living with Memory Loss, the care partner needs to maintain their own mental and physical energy for proper care. Having respite care provides an avenue for the care partner to renew and recharge their own energy. Whether this time is spent resting, reading a book, or another activity, it is crucial to take the time to prevent caregiver burnout.
Improves Care Partner’s Quality of Life
Proper rest and recharging the body and mind can help improve the quality of life of the care partner. The physical, mental, and emotional stress caring for another person can have serious effects on a person’s health. If the person living with Memory Loss requires assistance, the physical strain on a care partner can be determinantal to their own body. Respite care provides support and assistance in various ways for the care partner to have a much-needed break from the physical demands of the person living with Memory Loss.
Less Chance of Hospital Patient Readmission
Living with Memory Loss can produce health challenges with many individuals requiring a form of hospitalization with the illness. Upon release from a medical setting, the individual may need extra care and time for recovery of their illness. This added pressure and stress can cause undue strain on the care partner. Respite care may help support the care partner and the person living with Memory Loss by offering in-home services or specialized programs at a Memory Care environment.
Caregivers Get Time to Engage in Other Relationships
Respite care provides the opportunity for the care partner to spend time with family and friends in a more relaxed atmosphere. This is a benefit for those who spend the bulk of their time focused on the care of another person. Care partners can schedule regular respite care for date nights, weekly social gatherings with friends, or to participate in hobbies.
Memory & Company’s Respite Hotel Service
For those who need respite care, Memory & Company offers the services of their Respite Hotel and Day Program. With locations in Oakville and Markham, we have short-term and long-term accommodations to support both the care partner and the person living with Memory Loss. Both locations have certified and experienced Team Members to provide care 24/7.
Our Members who live with Memory Loss are treated like VIP with private suites, personalized programing, and assisted nursing care if needed. We also offer support services, programs, and social groups for their care partners. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you along this journey.
