5 reasons to use respite care during the holidays

The end-of-year holidays can be as stressful as they are exciting, especially if you’re a full-time caregiver. Using respite care can help you manage your hectic schedule and provide your parent with safety and comfort.

Here are five reasons to consider respite care during the holiday season.

#1 Manage Stress During the Holidays

Traveling, shopping, cooking, baking, decorating. There’s plenty to keep you busy during the most wonderful time of the year. Trying to manage a jam-packed holiday schedule and giving your mom or dad the care they need may lead to burnout. And you can’t care for others if you’re mentally and physically exhausted.

Utilizing respite care allows you to lighten the caregiving load. You can put your mind at ease knowing your parent is being cared for while you unwind from the flurry of festivities. 

#2 Give Yourself Time for Chores

Even if you don’t partake in lots of festivities, you might have a job, childcare, household chores and other responsibilities to consider. When was the last time you deep cleaned your house or sorted through your mail? Everyday chores could pile up when you spend all your energy caring for a loved one. Cleaning gives you room to put up decorations and prepare to host gatherings.

#3 Reconnect with Others

It’s not unusual for relationships with family and friends to get pushed to the back burner if you’re a full-time caregiver. You’re responsible for another person’s well-being, which takes plenty of time and effort. 

The holidays allow you to come together with loved ones, and respite care allows you to reconnect with those you haven’t seen for a while. That’s especially helpful if you have relatives traveling into town, so you can spend time with them while they’re visiting.

#4 Travel for the Holidays

Finding time to get away can be difficult if you’re caring for an aging parent. Respite stays give you the freedom to travel and visit family and friends. This type of senior care provides your mom or dad with medical support, physical assistance, meals, housekeeping and laundry services to help them feel comfortable. 

#5 Keep Your Senior Socially Active

Your mom or dad may benefit from the social aspect of respite care. While the at-home hustle can be overwhelming, respite care staff organize festive activities, so your loved one can participate at their leisure. Maintaining socialization is important to healthy aging, and respite care promotes daily interaction. Activities may include crafts, music, exercise, performances and supervised outings.

Embassy Healthcare offers daily and extended-stay respite care. We’re happy to look after your loved one, so you have time to run errands and relax. Call 216-378-2050 or contact us online to learn more.