You may be the primary caregiver of a loved one who is disabled or has special needs or difficulty with everyday tasks due to age. This is a demanding job and can be difficult for those who may not understand the complex medical needs of their family member. Respite care may help relieve some of the stress that primary caregivers have. Here’s what you should know about these temporary services. 

What Is Respite Care? 

When a disabled or senior family member relies on you to help with their everyday tasks, life can quickly become stressful and overwhelming. Respite care is a service that provides short-term breaks for families and other unpaid caregivers. This can be for a few hours to a few weeks at a time. Respite care will help patients bathe, get dressed, make and eat meals, take medications, and exercise regularly. It can also provide your loved one with a variety of activities and mental stimulation.

What Are the Types of Respite Care? 

There are two main types of respite care. In-home services are when a home health care professional stays at home with your loved one and tends to their needs in the comfort of their own living space. The second is care provided at an assisted living facility, where your loved one will stay overnight. 

Who Should Seek Respite Care?

Respite care can help a person who has a loved one who is disabled, chronically ill and needs support for daily tasks, or elderly. For example, people with cancer, dementia, or Alzheimer's disease may need your constant care and attention. Children with special needs, such as autism, also require a lot of assistance. Respite care services can give you a break from these tasks, and nurses will help ensure their specific needs are met if your loved one’s disability or age is difficult for you to manage. 

Caring for a loved one can be difficult, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Deer Valley Home Health Services can help you take care of your loved one with in-home respite care. With locations in Berkeley, St. Charles, and St. Louis, MO, you’ll never be far from a trusted caregiver. They have over 10 years of experience offering elderly care and other social services. To learn more about their services, call (314) 355-3679 or visit them online.