Taking care of a family member with a medical condition is hard work. Luckily, there are options for caretakers to get a well-deserved break. Respite care is a temporary way of getting short-term care for a patient with complex medical needs.
Respite care can vary; it could be for a few hours a day when a nurse comes to provide additional help or a temporary stay at a nursing facility like Iliff.
To the caregiver: it’s often hard admitting you may need help or a break from being a primary caregiver to a loved one. You should know that this is a hard job and many caregivers are doing the job of multiple people.
What respite care can look like for your loved one
Help with:
- Bathing
- Getting dressed
- Meal preparation and eating
- Medication Schedule
- Exercise in the form of physical therapy
- Getting in and out of bed
- Enjoying the time to socialize with other residents
- Activities
Respite care is a good option for those experiencing memory issues, Alzheimer’s disease, recovery from surgery or illness, or experiencing short-term or long-term health issues. Similarly, this is also a great option for children with complex medical conditions.
Locally you may be able to find options for research, volunteers, support groups, and ways to pay for the services. The state of Virginia’s Division for Community Living – Office for Aging Services is full of resources for our senior population.
At Iliff, we’d love to help you in the support and caring of your loved one no matter their age. Contact our facility today for more information and to schedule a guided tour of our newly renovated facility.