What is Respite Care? A Necessary Service to Help Caregivers Maintain Their Health and Personal Life.
Respite Care is temporary or short-term care for an elderly or disabled person provided by someone other than the regular caregiver. Respite Care provides a temporary break for the regular caregiver, usually a spouse or child, and allows the regular caregiver to rest, take care of personal business or maintain the household. It is a necessary part of in-home, long-term care that helps keep the regular caregiver from experiencing burn out or other stress-induced illnesses associated with long term care giving.
Respite Care services can be provided:
- in the home where the person is cared for
- by outside providers
- in a nursing home or assisted living facility
- at an adult day care center
Respite Care services are provided by private businesses, friends and family, and some nonprofit entities. Costs are based on the services provided and duration of care. Often a caregiver’s friends and family will help provide respite care, but a caregiver doesn’t ask. If you have a friend or family member who is a caregiver, reach out to them and offer to provide them with some respite care, even if it is only for an hour so they can go get a cup of coffee in quiet.
Community respite care services can be found in all areas of Florida by calling the Florida Elder Help Line at 1-800-96-ELDER.
