It’s estimated nearly 44 million Americans are family caregivers, which means they provide unpaid care to a family member, friend or neighbor. That adds up to 37 billion hours of care each year.
While caring for a loved one can be a meaningful and rewarding experience, it also can be an emotionally and physically demanding job.
According to AARP, nearly 9 in 10 family caregivers said caring for a loved one was harder than they anticipated, and more than half felt overwhelmed by the amount of care their loved one needs.
It’s a common truth — everyone needs a break sometimes. That’s where respite care comes in. Respite care provides a family caregiver time away from their caregiving responsibilities to rest and recharge. It’s a way to take a much-needed break while still ensuring that their love one’s needs are met.
There are several different types of respite care available, including adult day centers, residential facilities and in-home care. At ComForCare/At Your Side Home Care, we provide in-home care services. A professional caregiver comes to a person’s home, where they are most comfortable, and takes care of them as their family would. Our caregivers are available for a few hours a day up to 24/7, including holidays. We can assist with a wide variety of daily activities, including:
Most importantly, our caregivers provide companionship. We take into account a person’s hobbies, skills and interests, and incorporate Meaningful Activities into their daily routines. We also have innovative programs for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
It’s often said you can’t fill from an empty cup. Respite care provides family caregivers the opportunity to spend time with other friends or family members, exercise, run errands, get to the doctor, take a vacation, get a haircut or simply relax. If you or someone you know could use a break, contact ComForCare/At Your Side Home Care for a no obligation in-home consultation.
Editor’s note: This article was originally published Feb. 18, 2016. It has been revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.