All caregivers need a break from their responsibilities from time to time—especially those who are caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia. But, not all caregivers have a large family or a robust support system to help them balance elder care and self-care.
Whether you want to arrange a few hours of respite care each week or you’re looking for a provider to handle temporary care and supervision for a senior over several days and nights so you can take a vacation, there are dementia care services that allow family caregivers to disconnect and recharge. Finding the right fit depends on a senior’s mental and physical health status, whether any other care team members are willing to lend a hand, and the budget for respite care.
Keep in mind that your elder’s funds should be used to cover the cost of respite care. Your services as a caregiver, whether they are paid or unpaid, are helping to delay their permanent move to long-term care and the expenses associated with senior living. It only makes sense that they should foot the bill for the respite care necessary for you to take a well-deserved rest.