Taking care of an ailing loved one can be a physical and emotional ordeal. Because the love you feel for your elderly family member, the one you are caring for, is indescribable – it’s tempting to feel like your best isn’t good enough. It’s easy to question if you are properly caring for them, what you may be doing wrong, and if you are missing crucial steps to improve their quality of life. To say that it’s a stressful situation is an understatement.
Fortunately, some solutions can not only ensure that your loved one is getting exceptional care at all times, but that gives you a well-deserved break. That’s why many families seek respite care for their ailing and elderly family members.
The National Institute of Aging defines respite care as short-term relief for primary caregivers. That “short-term” period is determined by what you are most comfortable with; it could mean giving yourself a few hours a week to run some errands or treat yourself to a cup of coffee, or that someone cares for your loved one for several days a week.
WebMD explains that the most typical patients who receive respite care often suffer from terminal cancers, brain injuries, Alzheimer’s or dementia, a stroke, or blindness. Respite care allows your loved one to more comfortably eat and drink, bathe, get in and out of bed, exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and take medications.
A common question many families who are considering respite care ask is how much does it cost? While an exact cost is based on your loved one’s specific situation, The National Institute of Aging explains that respite services often charge either by the hour or by the number of days a week for services provided. While most insurance plans will not cover respite care costs, Medicaid may offer financial assistance, and Medicare will cover most of the cost of up to five days in a row of respite care in a hospital or skilled nursing facility.
Being responsible for the physical and mental health of an aging relative is a difficult process. That’s why respite care is a wonderful solution for families like you; respite care ensures that a loved one gets the exceptional attention they need and deserve while safeguarding your own mental health.
Many senior living communities also offer respite care. For example, during a short-term stay at an assisted living facility, A Place For Mom emphasizes how your loved one will not only receive personalized care and companionship but will also be included in daily activities, dining, and socialization at the facility.
When it comes to respite care and longer-term care solutions, Addington Place of East Lake is a wonderful living community for seniors at every stage of their personal health. Because the more aspects of your physical and emotional health you engage in, the happier and healthier a person ages.
Addington Place of East Lake is an Assisted Living community in the picturesque neighborhood of East Lake, Florida that thrives on vibrant and meaningful senior living. Every day is a wonderful and happy day, as our residents enjoy a happy and carefree lifestyle. With chef-inspired meals, a compassionate staff to serve residents 24-hours a day, and exciting social activities, our distinctive community offers a variety of opportunities for a rich life.
For more information on respite care and what Addington Place of East Lake offers its residents, visit our website or contact us today. Like us on Facebook to learn more about life at Addington Place.
Sources
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-respite-care
https://www.webmd.com/cancer/what-is-respite-care
https://www.assistedliving.org/respite-care/
https://www.agingcare.com/articles/need-break-from-caregiving-how-to-find-respite-care-137714.htm
https://www.aplaceformom.com/caregiver-resources/articles/respite-care
