Respite: A short period of time when you are able to stop doing something that is difficult or unpleasant or when something difficult or unpleasant stops or is delayed; an interval of rest or relief
Respite. We all need it at some point in time as life happens. That’s why, in consideration of National Family Caregivers Month, I want to recognize and emphasize the important responsibilities that family caregivers face, and how crucial respite can be to their own mental and physical health.
I’ve heard it said before, “I could never do what you do so well as a caregiver. It’s not me.” This is very true. Some people are not wired to handle the myriad situations that occur when tending to the needs of a loved one or, in my business, those of a relative stranger.
Family caregivers have a much greater vested interest in the care of their family member, because they are FAMILY! In as much as the compassionate caregivers I employ are available to be there when family can’t, there is something truly special about having a trusted family caregiver tend to their loved one’s personal needs and responsibilities.
“Caregiving is an important public health issue that affects the quality of life for millions of individuals. Caregivers provide assistance with another person’s social or health needs. Caregiving may include help with one or more activities important for daily living such as bathing and dressing, paying bills, shopping and providing transportation. It also may involve emotional support and help with managing a chronic disease or disability. Caregiving responsibilities can increase and change as the recipient’s needs increase, which may result in additional strain on the caregiver,” says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Caregiving is a challenging profession that can have both positive and negative effects on the family caregiver. Some of these impacts include absenteeism from work and difficulty engaging in social interactions or relationships with others due to time constraints caused by caregiving duties over other responsibilities, such as family obligations. it can also lead to declining physical and mental health, because their own needs are not being met.
Additionally there are emotional strains involved, when caring for a family member or loved one becomes long-term, because this can change the trajectory of the personal and professional life of the family caregiver. Although, there is a strong level of satisfaction felt by family caregivers, burn-out is always an issue.
This is where respite care for family caregivers is a solution.
A little break for you, the family caregiver, and some professional TLC for your family member or loved one can go a long way to Making Life Easier℠ for you all! My team of compassionate caregivers at Home Helpers® Clearwater are available 24/7/365, to provide respite care for family caregivers, and companionship, social engagement, assistance with personal care, meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation assistance, and so much more to help your loved one.
As always, I gladly offer a FREE Consultation to get to know you and your loved one, assess your specific needs for respite and create a comprehensive plan to help improve your quality of life and make your life easier!
We, at Home Helpers® Clearwater, are honored to have received the Home Care Pulse – Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice Award in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 & 2021. We proudly serve male and female seniors in Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs, Holiday, New Port Richey, Trinity, Port Richey, Hudson and surrounding areas. Home Helpers®…we are Making Life Easier℠ 727.942.2539
Sources:
CDC
