Respite Care – Definition, Costs, and Different Types

Respite Care: Definition, Costs, and Different Types

Everyone needs to rest sometimes, especially when taking care of a loved one with special needs. Respite care programs were designed precisely for this purpose, to give caregivers some much-needed rest and downtime and, as a result, provide better care in the long term.

What Is Respite Care and How Does It Work?

Respite care is defined as providing short-term or temporary care to the sick or disabled for a few hours or weeks to relieve the primary caregiver. Usually, the frequent caregiver is a family member, but it might also be a professional home healthcare worker. Many family members feel a tinge of guilt when thinking about leaving their loved one in the care of another; nevertheless, research shows that caregivers who take a break from the related pressures can assist avoid incidences of neglect or abuse. Patients who are handicapped, developmentally challenged, terminally sick, or old may benefit from respite care. People who require round-the-clock supervision and care sometimes require long-term, consistent care. Respite services can take care of the meals, medication administration, housekeeping, personal hygiene care, and laundry service, among other things. Some respite care providers may take patients on trips and activities outside of the facility.

Respite Care Costs

Families may face additional costs as a result of respite care. A home care caregiver earns an average of $21 per hour, whereas a housekeeper earns $19 per hour. Typically, short-term respite care lasts two to four hours. To make their work worthwhile, many carers charge a minimum amount of hours. Long-term care costs an average of $67 per day for 8 hours a day, 5 days a week. In certain situations, health insurance will pay the price of respite care. Grants for persons with certain conditions may be available from organizations and special interest groups. People who care for persons with such medical problems can apply for grants from the Alzheimer’s Association and the M.S. Society.

4 Major Types of Respite Care

1. Residential Respite

Respite care is provided in a residential home, a nursing home, or a local care home.

2. Homecare or Domiciliary Care

Planning for care to be provided in the house will reduce the amount of interruption. This can be obtained through a professional home care provider or even a local charity.

3. Daycare Centers

A visit to a daycare center provides companionship as well as a variety of activities. They’re typically designed for socializing, although some can also provide personal care and transportation.

4. Respite Vacations

This respite type may be an actual win-win situation. A growing number of vacations—hotels, cruises, and so on—provide breaks for caretakers and specific accommodations for those who require extra assistance. But, don’t forget about family and friends: if they’re willing to supply temporary care, this offer of assistance may be pretty helpful, especially if it comes at a moment’s notice.

Conclusion

With the significant increase in the aging population, about 65 million Americans are tasked with caring for an aged or limited-ability loved one. Respite care is a necessity for those ill-prepared to handle the daily rigors of caregiving. A family should research the credentials of the temporary caregiver before signing up for respite care. Before signing a contract, full-time careers should get references and have a meeting with the caregiver. Morristown HC is the leading provider of hospice care and respite services in Morristown. Our premier nursing home is located directly across Morristown Medical Center. To know more about how our services can ease your burdens, get in touch with us today!