Caregiving is a commitment that’s often 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—nights and weekends included. The responsibilities and constant demands of care, especially when caring for someone who is facing end of life, can take a toll on even the best and strongest caregivers.
Caregivers can find support through respite care, which is a short break for the caregiver. Respite care serves as a lifeline for caregivers and provides an opportunity for caregivers to step away from the emotionally and physically challenging role of providing end-of-life care to a loved one. It can also provide a much-needed change in the day-to-day routine of the patient.
Respite allows the caregiver to run errands, take care of appointments or medical care, arrange a short out-of-town trip, participate in special events, like weddings, or simply have time to relax. The time taken can be an hour, a few hours or even a few days. It provides relief to the caregiver to do something they need or want to do or to have some relief from caregiving responsibilities.
Help with Hospice
Patients under the care of HIA Hospice may use their Medicare benefit and, sometimes, private insurance for a respite stay every 30 days at HIA Heather’s House or other contracted respite locations.
The stay is typically five nights, but the patient and family can choose to use less time, if desired. This break may, in some cases, be the difference between a patient remaining in his or her home or requiring long-term care placement. The goal is for the patient to return home after the respite stay.
Caregivers may also have other family, friends or health care professionals provide respite care for them in their private residence. No matter where you find support, it’s so important that you find time to take care of yourself so you can keep showing up for your loved one. You are providing an incredible gift to your loved one who entrusts you with their care.
