What is respite care?

Submitted by Emma Hamilton on Wed, 10/03/2010 - 4:02pm

Respite care provides relief for carers who care for someone with a chronic illness, a disability or a frail older loved one.

Providing continuous care can be stressful for many caregivers. Many carers find it difficult to juggle the demands of caring with their own work and family commitments. Respite care is a great way for carers to get a break from the carer role.

Respite care is temporary care that relieves caregivers of the burden of providing round the clock care. Respite care gives carers some well needed time off.

Caregivers can organise respite care according to their own schedule. Respite care can be arranged at home, at a day care centre or in an aged care home. Respite care can be organised for a day a week or several weeks a year.

Respite care provides you with some valuable time out. Even just a couple of hours a week can bring much needed relief to many caregivers. If used regularly respite care can help prevent carer stress and burnout.