If you’re a frequent flyer, you’re probably familiar with the pre-flight safety notice: In case of emergency, make sure to put your own oxygen mask on before assisting others. For caregivers, a similar policy applies. Taking care of ailing or aging loved ones can be a challenging full-time job, with round-the-clock requirements that can quickly deplete your energy. Caregivers are selfless, hardworking individuals – but they need to care for themselves before they can properly care for others. Respite care is a great way to give yourself a much-needed break so you can feel refreshed and ready to care for your loved one. However, it can be scary to trust someone else with your loved one’s well-being. Read on to find out how to find respite care.
How to Find Respite Care
What Is Respite Care?
There are several different kinds of respite care. Depending on your needs, you can schedule respite care in your or your loved one’s home for a few hours at a time. Some facilities also offer in-house day or overnight respite care. In addition, you may be able to reach out to friends and family members for a short afternoon break. However, if you need a longer break – maybe you’re going out of town or having health problems of your own – it could be worth hiring a special needs caregiver or a certified senior care aide.
Connecting with a Professional
If you’re in need of more comprehensive respite care but are not sure where to start, contact a senior center that specializes in respite care, like the Crossings at Riverview. You could also reach out to a state agency or local council on aging. Working with a professional may be daunting, but it can be a good option, especially if you’re looking for a caregiver with medical training. If your love one’s medical needs aren’t as demanding, a senior care facility can be a good option. Not only do senior care facilities offer social activity, but they can also provide basic health services like blood pressure screenings.
Whatever option you choose, make sure to work with a licensed, thoroughly vetted care provider. If you’re working with an individual, introduce them to your loved one early on in the process. If you’re working with a facility, ask to see the last survey from your state’s department of health to make sure the facility has a good record.
Consider Funding Options
So you’ve figured out how to find respite care – now, how do you pay for it? Depending on your location and income, you may need to research respite care options a little more thoroughly. Some states may allow a respite care reimbursement for keeping your loved one in a facility, for example. Make sure to confirm financial matters with individuals and facilities early on in the respite care process.
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Learning how to find respite care doesn’t have to be a stressful process. Respite care is a key part of staying healthy and taking care of yourself. That, in turn, allows you to better care for your loved one.
If you are looking for respite care or memory care in Riverview, Florida, we invite you to tour our community, meet our friendly staff, and see our amenities firsthand. Overlooking the Alafia River on twelve beautiful acres, the Crossings at Riverview offers a relaxing atmosphere, and our talented team is committed to cultivating a welcoming and vibrant community. Our goal is to make our community feel like home for all of our residents. To schedule a tour, call 813-671-0222 or contact us online. We look forward to meeting you!