Dear Jaclyn:

For the first time since I became a caregiver for my mom, my husband and I will be taking our family on a summer vacation. We know before long our kids won’t be very interested in spending their summers with us so we want to make this trip a priority.

My concern is for my mom. She lives with us now and she isn’t safe to travel with us or to stay alone. I have heard about respite care, but don’t know much about it. Would it be an option for my mom while we are out of town?

Cassandra in Columbus

Dear Cassandra:

Yes! Respite was designed for situations like the one you find yourself in.

Respite services offer a care solution for older adults and people with a disability who need extra support on a short-term basis. It might be a temporary stay in an assisted living community or the help of an in-home caregiver.

In your case, your mom can enjoy a short-term stay with us while you relax and enjoy your vacation knowing she is in good hands.

What Family Caregivers Should Know about Respite Care

A respite stay in an assisted living community offers seniors all of the services and amenities our long-term residents enjoy. Most assisted living communities allow respite residents to stay from a few days or up to one month.

Here’s what you should know about what is included in a respite care stay at an assisted living community:

• Fully furnished apartment or suite to enjoy
• Three well-balanced meals each day and healthy snacks between meals
• Most assisted living communities can even accommodate special diets
• Assistance with personal care needs such as bathing, grooming, toileting, and dressing
• Support managing medications to ensure the correct dose of is taken at the right time
• Caregivers nearby around-the-clock supervision
• Laundry and housekeeping services provided
• Life enrichment activities planned throughout the day and evening
• Transportation services for appointments and errands

Most assisted living communities will encourage you to bring a few of your mom’s favorite belongings to help her apartment feel more like home. It could be something as simple as her favorite throw and a few framed family photos.

It is always best to schedule your respite stay as soon as you know the dates for your vacation. Summer is a busy time for respite and you will want to make sure the community you like has space available.

Hope you have a great trip, Cassandra!

Jaclyn

MacIntosh Company has a number of communities with opportunities for respite care for when you need a break from the daily life of a caregiver. Call us today at 614-345-9500 to learn more about respite care and what it could mean for you and your family.