Caring for another person can become a full-time job, and no one should have to do it alone. Respite care gives you time to address your personal needs while your senior is cared for in a secure environment.
This type of senior care is available in adult daycare facilities, assisted living communities and skilled nursing facilities. It usually includes personal and medical assistance, scheduled activities and entertainment and wellness programs. Respite care is temporary and available on an as-needed basis and during emergencies.
Why Caregivers Should Consider Respite Care
Trying to balance your loved one’s needs with your own can cause physical and emotional strain that may lead to burnout. It’s important to take care of yourself so you can lead a healthy life and provide quality care for your loved one, too.
Emotional and Mental Health Benefits
Managing another person’s care every day can take a toll on your mental health and emotions. You may find yourself ignoring warning signs of emotional distress or failing to make time to address them.
Common emotional and mental symptoms of caregiver burnout include:
- Depression or anxiety
- Lack of concentration
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Feelings of resentment, hopelessness or guilt
- Negative thoughts
- Social withdrawal
- Loss of interest in activities and hobbies
Utilizing different types of respite care allows you the time to recuperate and satisfy your emotional needs. That may include practicing self-care or seeking professional support, which can reduce stress and improve mood.
Focusing on yourself can also help you become a better caregiver. You’ll have time to clear mental clutter and work through emotional and mental roadblocks that you didn’t have time to consider before.
Physical Health Advantages
Your loved one may require assistance with activities of daily living and moving, which can put physical strain on your body. You may have to lift, carry, transfer and support your senior’s body weight occasionally, which can be challenging if you have a medical condition or size difference.
Physical signs of burnout include:
- Weight loss or gain
- Insomnia
- Chronic fatigue
- Frequent illness
- Body aches or headaches
- Chest pain
- Heart palpitations
- Dizziness
Taking your loved one to a respite care facility frees up your schedule to assess and improve your physical health. That might include exercising, preparing healthy meals, practicing mindfulness and prioritizing sleep.
Improving Relationships
Being a caregiver can create different emotions. It’s not unusual for you or your loved one to experience frustration or resentment due to a loss of independence, personality differences and opinions.
Using respite care gives you and your senior time apart, which can actually promote a healthier relationship. Your loved one can interact with different people, providing them with a more extensive support system.
You’ll have time to interact with family and friends or reconnect with people you haven’t seen for a while. Socialization boosts cognitive and emotional health and helps you nurture current relationships and form new ones.
Find The Right Respite Care Service
Embassy Healthcare offers comprehensive respite care as often as you need. Our short-term care is designed for adults with special medical needs and ranges from a few hours to multiple days. Contact us to learn more about our respite care service and how to schedule stays.
