Respite Care: Is There a Downside?

A respite is a temporary break, and this is exactly what in-home respite care provides if you spend most of your time caring for an older loved one. From reducing stress to strengthening relationships, the short-term relief provided by in-home respite care can have many positive benefits. But are there any possible disadvantages?

Concerns about Letting a Stranger Care for Your Loved One

Yes, your loved one would be inviting someone new into his or her home. But that person will be fully vetted and well prepared to meet your loved one’s needs while you tend to your own. Plus, it’s not unusual for the same respite caregivers to come to clients’ homes on a regular basis, which means your loved one could get to know and trust these temporary relief caregivers. Although it may be challenging to find reliable, highly rated elderly home care, Des Moines, IA, families can turn to Home Care Assistance. Our respite and live-in caregivers are expertly trained to assist seniors with a wide array of important tasks, including cooking, bathing, light housekeeping, and exercise.

Engagement and Involvement

You may have concerns that you’re leaving your loved one alone with a new person who will just keep an eye on him or her as you recharge and refresh. However, respite caregivers are trained to keep seniors active and involved. Comprehensive care often includes: • Constant companionship • Enjoyable activities • Visits to local parks, museums, and other senior-friendly venues

Availability and Accessibility

Most reputable in-home care providers that offer respite care services don’t have “standard hours.” You won’t have to worry about rearranging your schedule or holding off on planned vacations or trips just so care can be provided for your loved one. Respite care can be provided in many different ways, including: • During certain hours of the day when you’ll need to tend to other needs • Only on specific days of the week • When you’ll be away from home on a vacation or for work-related travel There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional senior home care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.

Cost Concerns

You might think respite care will end up being a financial burden, but this is hardly the case. In-home respite care can easily be an affordable alternative to around-the-clock care. You’ll only be charged for the days or hours you need relief. With this option, you also won’t need to enter into a long-term contract. You’ll only pay for the care your loved one needs.

Guilt about Taking a Break

One of the main disadvantages of in-home respite care is guilt you may feel about turning the care of your loved one over to someone else. On a positive note, this guilt is often short-lived. In time, you’ll likely notice your loved one is being cared for by highly skilled, compassionate in-home caregivers during the times when you need to take a break.

Concerns about Unique Care Needs

There aren’t too many disadvantages associated with in-home respite care. However, you may still be worried if your loved one has unique care needs, which is a concern that can be easily addressed during your initial meeting with an in-home respite caregiver. The caregiver can answer your questions and ensure any specific or unique care requirements are taken into consideration when temporary care is provided. Family caregivers need to care for their own wellbeing. If you’re caring for an aging loved one and are feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring a professional caregiver to provide respite care. Des Moines families who want to prevent burnout can turn to Home Care Assistance. One of our professional caregivers can assist your loved one at home while you take a nap, go to work, run errands, or go on vacation. Call us today at (515) 264-2438 to discuss how we can give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved one is being cared for with professionalism and compassion.