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Published on: Advice

Give Yourself a Break, the Importance of Respite Care

At Minster Home Care, we understand that some caregivers need the option of a helping hand from time to time. This may be to go on holiday, have a short break or simply to fulfil other commitments.

That’s why, at Minster Home Care, we believe it is important to offer family respite care for caregivers that need that all important break.

What Is Respite Care?

Respite care is when a loved one takes a break from caring, whilst the person being cared for is being looked after by someone else. It ensures that the caregiver looks after themselves and avoids becoming exhausted and run down.

Often, caregiving can involve physical and emotional strain, which is exasperated by balancing things like employment, other commitments and even just needing a holiday. Being healthy and supported as a family caregiver is vital, as this will result in better quality time being spent between you and your family member.

What Is the Importance of Respite Care?

Although providing respite care to your loved one is undoubtedly a rewarding experience, there are definite challenges that come with the territory. It can leave family caregivers stressed and exhausted, which in turn can have negative emotional and mental affects which will only badly impact on the care that’s given.

Respite care is vital in ensuring that family caregivers are given a well-earned break, or even just the opportunity to catch-up with life admin and attend other commitments.

What Are the Options?

There are many options when it comes to respite care. This ranges from having a carer to sit with the person you look after for a few hours or someone to stay for a short while whilst you go on holiday or have a break. We can also support you to care for your family member, ideal for caregivers that have other jobs or commitments to balance alongside providing care.

At Minster Home Care, we want to provide the best care possible. This means that if a family member who is providing care needs sustained support from one of our Family Respite carers, then that’s the care we want to provide. It also means that the person is able to stay in the comfort of their own home and receive the consistent support they need.

Palliative Care

Our Family Respite Care service also works in conjunction with our Palliative Care service. We understand that many family caregivers struggle with providing extensive care when their loved one has a terminal illness or is reaching the end of their life. This can often lead to confusion, anxiety or anticipatory grief. Our carers are always on hand to support you through this process, as our service includes Palliative Care which can be utilised in conjunction with our Family Respite Care service.

For more information about our Family Respite Care service and how we can help you to have that much needed break, contact Minster Home Care today.