Being a family caregiver isn’t something that comes easily for most people. There are lots of tasks to juggle and often lots of different responsibilities, too. It can be a lonely job, but it is also one that is rewarding. If family caregivers aren’t taking time away periodically, it’s all too easy to burn out. Home care services can step in and offer respite, but family caregivers need to actually take the time away.
Family Caregivers Have a Big Job
Caregiving might start out with a few responsibilities here and there, but depending on how quickly life changes for the aging adults they’re caring for, family caregivers often find themselves in over their heads quickly. Sometimes life changes overnight, like when a senior family member has a health emergency or accident. If family caregivers aren’t prepared to take care of themselves, they can face some big problems.
Balancing Caregiving and Other Responsibilities
Being a family caregiver can’t be the only thing in someone’s life. They often have other responsibilities, ranging from work and family to other obligations, like children or caring for multiple seniors. There’s a lot to keep in balance and that’s tough to do alone. Family caregivers need support, and home care assistance is a logical next step.
Respite Care Defined
Respite care is a type of care that allows family caregivers to take a break from caregiving duties. There’s someone else there, usually an experienced home care provider, who can handle whatever might happen. Family caregivers leave for a few hours, rest, recharge, and take care of themselves as much as possible. When they come back, they’re better prepared to keep going.
What to Do with Respite Time
One big question many family caregivers have is what they should do with respite time. The truth is that respite time doesn’t have rules. It’s time for family caregivers to spend however they need to spend it. Ideally, they would engage in activities that offer them relief and relaxation. Spending time with friends, pursuing hobbies, and even sleeping are all some ideas. But the most important part is that family caregivers do take time away and allow elder care providers to step in for them.
How Respite Supports Family Caregivers
Respite providers are experienced caregivers in their own right. They know what it’s like to take care of seniors who need extra help and they’re able to offer whatever help seniors might need. Their assistance is flexible, so they can help out whenever necessary. And when family caregivers are away, they have peace of mind knowing that their seniors aren’t alone and have assistance.
Family caregivers need to be able to take breaks, even if it’s just once in a while. Letting home care providers take over for them now and again helps to ensure that family caregivers aren’t burning themselves out or pushing themselves too hard. Taking breaks reduces their stress levels and helps them to be better caregivers to the people they love and want to help.
If you are considering home care in Henderson, NV for an aging loved one, please contact the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Summerlin. 702-800-4616.
