Are There Any Disadvantages to Respite Care?

June 19, 2023

Having temporary relief from caring for an aging parent is never a disadvantage. In fact, it gives both you and your loved one the separation you need while providing a host of benefits to your family. The short-term relief known as respite care can reduce stress, strengthen relationships, and promote self-care among family caregivers. Take a look at some of the many advantages seniors and their families can receive when using respite care. 

Consistency

Your parent can receive respite care instead of going to a retirement facility or adult centre, which is beneficial to his or her quality of life. Your loved one will be surrounded by familiar faces and continue with daily routines. Seniors with age-related conditions such as dementia or Alzheimer’s can maintain their independence for more extended periods when they follow regular schedules and patterns. When your family needs short-term relief, you can receive high-quality assistance via respite care. 

Engagement

Respite care provides companionship, which can boost mental and emotional health. Isolation is a big issue for older adults because they’re at higher risk for withdrawing from social activities due to various age-related health conditions. As a result, they fail to receive the social stimulation they need to boost their brain health and lower the risk of depression. In a respite home, aging adults benefit from changes in their daily routines, social and physical engagement, and making new connections with other clients in the home.  There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional care in a respite home. Edmonton families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while respecting their privacy and preserving their dignity. 

Flexibility

Respite care is available based on your loved one’s needs and finances, along with the schedules of his or her family caregivers. If your loved one only needs assistance for a couple of hours a day or a few days each week, you can take advantage of a respite home during those times. If you plan to take an extended vacation with your spouse and children or with your friends, you can use respite care services while you’re away. This type of flexibility can ensure your loved one is never alone, even when you have personal and professional commitments to handle. Although it may be challenging to find reliable, highly rated respite care, Edmonton, AB, families can turn to Butterfly Dreams Respite Care. Our respite caregivers are expertly trained to assist seniors with a wide array of important tasks, including bathing, grooming, eating nutritious meals, and exercising.

Lower Cost

Hiring an around-the-clock caregiver may not be financially sustainable for your loved one, but using respite care comes with lower costs. Instead of paying for time he or she doesn’t need, your parent will only be charged for the hours, days, or weeks he or she spends in the respite care home. If an emergency occurs, you might need to use respite care—for example, while your loved one recovers from surgery for a week while you complete an important project at work. With this option, your loved one can receive convalescent care without committing to a long-term contract. The savings can be used to cover your loved one’s medical costs, grooming expenses, utility bills, meals, and home improvements.  Family caregivers need to care for their own wellbeing. If you’re caring for an aging loved one and are feeling overwhelmed, consider Edmonton respite care. Families who want to prevent burnout can turn to Butterfly Dreams Respite Care. Our professional caregivers can care for your loved one while you take a nap, go to work, run errands, or go on vacation. Call us today at 587-800-4822 to discuss how we can give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved one is being cared for with professionalism and compassion.