Respite Care Services

Respite care services can be an incredible resource for many full time carehelpers. Even just a few hours a week can make a huge difference for you emotionally. Most carehelpers I speak with, however, feel like like they can never let their guard down or may even feel guilty about dropping Mom or Dad off with a program for the afternoon. Yet, even though, taking care of a loved one is one of the most rewarding things we can do on earth, it can also be very stressful. Remember that if you let your physical or emotional health slide, it impairs your ability to provide care to those you love. So allow yourself the an afternoon off and take advantage of the respite services in your area.... look at it as taking some time for yourself or even giving your loved one a break from the daily routine.

Many respite providers see their services as ministries are free to the public or they may be covered through Medicare.

What can you do now?

1. Check out the respite services in your area and find one close to you that serves the disabilities particular to your need: Do a Google search on "respite care" in your area or call or go to your local Area Agency on Aging and ask them for a list of local providers.

2. Go by and check it out for yourself. Talk to the sitters and ask them about their policies, hours of operation, and what you need to bring.

3. Talk to your loved one about it in terms of a day out and encourage them to see it as a way to to have time outside of your care, because remember many times your loved one may need a break from the daily routine as well.

4. Plan ahead for those hours. Set up a lunch. Go to a movie. Make a date with your spouse that is probably way overdue. Pamper yourself or take the time to get those neglected errands off your plate.

5. When you pick your loved one up, talk to the sitters and ask them how it went. What might be done next time to prepare for your visit or just to assess the situation yourself. If you feel uneasy about the care provided, try another care service next time and let people know.

Write a blog on CaringSource.com and let us know what you think about the services you have used in your area and why you would or why you would not use them again.