MANAGING CARE( continued)
In-Home Respite Informal, Personal Arrangements: This refers to a situation in which a family caregiver prepares and trains a couple of friends or other family members to fill in. Every family caregiver should have a back-up plan, and more than one option, in case someone is not available.
Home-Based Services: A trained, licensed, insured, and bonded employee of a private or state agency comes to the home. Ideally, service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Even if you do not employ regular home care, you can use a home help agency for the purpose of respite.
Companion Services: These services are provided by individuals who are trained in caring for adults and children with disabilities. This type of service is sometimes provided through a non-profit or service organization. In many cities across the country, Area Agencies offer respite care to the at-home spousal or family caregiver.
Trainer Services: A caregiver may be selected by the family or may be a family member. This individual receives training from a respite program. These caregivers may be paid or unpaid.
Out-of-Home Respite Family Care Homes: Respite is provided in the provider’ s home. The home and the individual providing care should be licensed under state regulations.
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Respite Adult Day Care: As discussed in the section“ Understanding Levels of Home- and Community- Based Services and Residential Care,” community-based adult day programs provide all-day, structured programming to adults with physical and cognitive impairments. While enhancing patients’ socialization and keeping patients safe, these adult day centers also offer family caregivers a respite from the demands of full-time caregiving for someone who needs constant supervision.
Residential Facilities: Most long-term residential facilities— independent living, assisted living, and nursing homes— offer short-term, overnight respite stays.
How do family caregivers benefit from respite services?
More than providing direct relief, the benefits of respite care can also include:
• Relaxation: Families can relax, gain peace of mind, and renew their humor and energy.
• Enjoyment: Families can enjoy favorite pastimes and pursue new activities.
• Stability: Respite can improve the family’ s ability to cope with daily responsibilities and maintain stability during crisis.
• Preservation: Respite helps preserve the family unit and lessens the pressures that might lead to institutionalization, divorce, neglect, or abuse.
• Involvement: Families can become involved in community activities and be less isolated.
• Time off: Couples or families can take a needed vacation or merely spend time together and time alone.
• Enrichment: Respite makes it possible for family members to establish individual identities and enrich their own personal growth and development.