Taking care of a loved one in their time of need is a selfless act of devotion. 

But it’s hard to give them your best if you’re always feeling exhausted. 

Caregiver burnout is a very real experience that happens to lots of folks when a family member has a long-term illness. You may find yourself feeling sad, irritable or hopeless. You may lose interest in favorite activities. You might be spending less time with other people in your life. 

Taking some time for your own needs isn’t just good for you, it also benefits the person you’re caring for. Respite care gives you that much-needed break, while your loved one continues to receive the care they need. 

It may involve just a few hours of in-home care, an afternoon adult day care program, or a temporary stay in a skilled nursing facility.

Benefits of Respite Care

Respite care meets your loved one’s basic needs when you’re not there — important things like personal care, taking medications and preparing food. It also provides positive stimulation by giving your loved one new people to interact wth. 

For caregivers, respite care can be a major stress reliever. It reassures you that your loved one is in a safe, supportive environment when you’re away. It gives you time for other essential activities like shopping, going to your own appointments, getting some exercise or visiting with friends.

Types of Respite Care

There are different types of respite care available. That helps you choose the services that best meet your loved one’s needs as well as your own.

• In-home respite care includes help with basic activities like getting dressed, administering medication and exercise. It may also include assistance with preparing meals, doing the laundry and other chores. 
• Adult day care services provide a friendly, safe place where your loved one can spend time with others. Planned activities may include music, art and games. Many adult day programs also provide meals and transportation. 
• An overnight stay in a skilled nursing facility may include just one night, a few days or even a few weeks, depending on your needs. It gives your loved one a save place to stay if you need to travel, or if you’re recovering from an illness or injury of your own.

Caregiver Support at Crown Hospice

At Crown Hospice, we understand that caregivers need care, too!

We take care of your loved one when it’s time for you to tend to your own needs. 

Our volunteers and aides will spend quality time with your loved one, listening to their concerns, offering friendly reassurance and even sharing a laugh or two! We help with activities of daily living (ADLs) like grooming and basic hygiene, as well as household tasks like folding laundry. 

We also provide spiritual support throughout your journey with us, and bereavement support after your loved one passes away.

Remember, nobody can do it all, so please don’t feel guilty about needing a helping hand taking care of your loved one!

If you have questions about hospice care for your loved one, please contact Crown Hospice online or give us a call at 361-575-5900. 

We also encourage you to visit our COVID-19 page to learn how we are working to reduce the risk of coronavirus exposure to our patients and their families.