Respite Care - An Emotional Lifesaver

Respite care is intended to "recharge" those who provide constant care to a disabled loved one. A recent survey by California's Caregiver Resource Center polled 10,000 nonprofessional caregivers and found 56% had suffered from anxiety or depression within the last six months and 79% indicated the person for whom they provided care could not be left alone.

Experts agree, caregivers must take care of themselves, and respite care may be a vehicle for providing a much-needed mental health break.

Respite care services vary, but may include the following types:

Adult day care programs which provide an opportunity for social interaction for the patient and a break for the caregiver;
Short-term stays at an assisted living or nursing facility; or
Another caregiver who can provide care for the patient within the patient's home while the primary caregiver is away.

To locate a program to meet your needs, visit the Eldercare Locator web site at www.eldercare.gov or call them at 800-677-1116. Your local Agency on Aging should also have information about respite programs.

Source: The Wall Street Journal, 3-20-06

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