Why you should consider using respite care
About 34.2 million Americans provided unpaid care to an adult age 50 or older in the last 12 months, according to information gathered by the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP. Stepping up to help a spouse who is having health issues or to care for an aging parent or relative takes compassion and patience. However, providing care for someone on top of your own family, work and personal demands can also be challenging. In order to do your best, sometimes it is important to seek respite care, the term given to a short-term, temporary care option.
Instead of feeling guilty for wanting some help, caregivers should realize the many benefits of seeking respite care. Here are a few ways that respite care is beneficial.
Caring for your own health – Caregivers can experience many different issues from sleep deprivation to depression as they struggle to give the best care possible. Ignoring your own health concerns to address the health of someone else can lead to bigger problems. If the caregiver becomes ill, there often is no one able to take over. Taking a break to attend to your own health needs will allow you to continue giving quality care.
Taking care of important life issues – Putting off important decisions, repairs and problems can lead to difficult situations. It is not always possible when you are a primary caregiver to take the time needed to adequately address things that crop up like a leak in the roof, meeting with an accountant for tax advice or any other time-consuming problems. Placing someone in respite care for a period of time can help you effectively address problems before they become complicated.
Giving attention to other loved ones – Although it may not be intentional, caregivers may ignore other family members and loved ones in order to give dedicated care to the one who seems to have the greatest need. Having to constantly decide whether to address the needs of your family or the needs of the person you are caring for can be stressful. By periodically using respite care, you can assure your spouse and family that you care for them as well.
Keeping connections strong – When you are actively involved in caring for someone, you may begin to feel isolated. Getting together with friends, attending community meetings and addressing other social obligations often have to be canceled due to care responsibilities. Using respite care can make it possible to attend your friend’s wedding or join in a family vacation so that you don’t feel isolated.
Enjoying life – Skipping fun activities to focus on care responsibilities may feel necessary but sometimes, it is a good idea to take a break and enjoy a few days away. Denying yourself any enjoyable activities may foster a feeling of resentment about your caregiving role. A short break allows you to relax and regain energy instead of being overwhelmed.
Fostering a new connection – Being cared for by the same person everyday can be comforting but it also can be limiting. A respite caregiver can provide a new connection for your loved one. In some cases, the respite caregiver may be able to provide some beneficial ideas about care that can make life easier. A second perspective on how to address needs can be helpful for everyone.
Finding respite caregivers – It can be challenging to trust others to care for your loved one. Not only does there need to be qualified care, there also needs to be assurance that care will be comfortable and compassionate. Whitehall of Deerfield has earned a reputation for being one of the North Shore’s finest options for care and has consistently received Medicare’s highest rating in Medicare’s five-star rating system of nursing and rehabilitation centers.
The expert staff is dedicated to providing the highest standards of customer service and clinical care. A skilled nursing staff is available around the clock and doctors are also always on call to take care of any medical needs. This attentive staff will monitor and deliver all medications and therapies for your loved one. They can also assist with dressing, personal grooming , bathing and other tasks as needed. This high level of ambiance, activity and assistance mean that you can take a much-needed break without worry.
Whitehall of Deerfield delivers this care in luxurious surroundings with spacious, comfortable rooms. Guests at Whitehall of Deerfield can choose from a variety of cuisine on daily menus that can be enjoyed in beautiful dining rooms or in the privacy of a guest’s room. The days will also fly by with the many leisure and social activities offered at Whitehall of Deerfield.
The cost of respite care at Whitehall is affordable and may be tax deductible. Ease your concerns by arranging a tour. When it is time to take a break from the demands of caregiving, Whitehall of Deerfield is one of the best options available. For more information or to make reservations for a short-term respite stay, visit whitehallofdeerfield.com or call 847-945-4600.