Every family caregiver needs to be aware of the options for finding support during times of need. New caregivers are sometimes surprised by just how tiring it is to care for a senior loved one, or they may still be trying to figure out how to juggle all their responsibilities. Experienced family caregivers sometimes realize they need a break after experiencing burnout or developing health conditions of their own. Wherever you are on your caregiver journey, it helps to know more about how in-home respite care can help you and your loved one enjoy a better quality of life.
Reasons to Get Respite Care
There are many different reasons people choose in-home respite care. One of the most common reasons is simply so the family can take a break. You may be running between two households or your loved one’s needs have become so time-consuming you barely have time to take a bath. These situations can lead to stress, resentment, and anger if you don’t get help managing your duties. In-home respite care gives you the time you need to recuperate at the end of a long day or week. Respite care is also a great alternative if you just need to go to a medical appointment or tackle a major work project.
Family caregivers sometimes need a break from their caregiving responsibilities. When they need respite care, Waterloo families can rely on professional caregivers to help their senior loved ones remain safe at home.
Average Cost of In-Home Care
While getting a break sounds nice, your next question may be whether it’s affordable. In-home respite care costs vary depending on how often a caregiver visits your loved one’s home. In some cases, health insurance or government programs can cover some of the costs of respite care. You’ll also find respite care tends to be less expensive than other options, since you’re able to keep your loved one at home.
The Caregiver Selection Process
In-home respite care agencies use a rigorous vetting process designed to screen out unqualified candidates so you’re always met at the door by someone you trust. Respite caregivers are matched to families based on specifics such as location and the level of care required. You can even hire respite caregivers with experience in caring for seniors with severe memory loss and other specific challenges.
When researching agencies that provide senior home care, families are usually looking for flexible care plans, compassionate and highly trained caregivers, and 24/7 availability. Whether you need respite care to take a break from your caregiving duties or your senior loved one needs around-the-clock assistance at home, you can rely on Home Care Assistance.
What Respite Caregivers Do
Once the caregiver knocks on your door, he or she quickly takes on the caregiving role and begins to help you with your loved one’s needs, from bathing and grooming to assisting with exercise. You can ask for assistance with things such as housekeeping and cooking so you and your loved one benefit from well-rounded services that take much of the stress out of your day.
Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Waterloo elder care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Home Care Assistance will work with you to customize a care plan that’s just right for your loved one’s needs. Reach out to one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (519) 954-2111.