Respite Care: Providing a Helping Hand for Alzheimer’s Caregivers

The physical, emotional and economic consequences for the family caregiver can be overwhelming without some degree of support and respite. A recent Commonwealth Fund study reported that 60% of family caregivers age 19-64 surveyed reported “Fair” or “Poor” health and one or more chronic conditions or disabilities, compared with only 33% of non-caregivers.

Clearly, the health and well-being of caregivers is placed at significant risk as a result of their challenging circumstances. Like the loved ones they care for, caregivers also deserve the support and attention they need to maintain their own health and well-being. Respite care, which provides caregivers a temporary rest from caregiving duties, is designed to do just that.

A Helping Hand for Caregivers

For many caregivers, the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia simply becomes a part of their normal day. However, caregiving is a highly demanding and stressful responsibility, and no one is equipped to do it without help.

Respite care for caregivers provides short-term breaks that can relieve stress, restore energy and promote balance in your life. Respite care provides you with a period of freedom from caregiving duties, while your loved one with Alzheimer’s continues to receive the care he or she requires in a safe, supportive environment. Respite care services provide you with an important means of support and can also strengthen your ability, physically and emotionally, to be a more effective caregiver.

Respite Care at North Woods Village at Edison Lakes

Today, many leading memory care assisted living communities (MCALs) provide respite care as an extension of their facility-based care and services. At North Woods Village at Edison Lakes, Michiana’s first and only memory care assisted living community, we respect those who care for their loved one at home and support their needs as part of our mission. We understand your challenges as well as your rewards. We also understand that while you find joy and comfort in taking care of your loved one, you need time to take care of yourself as well.

Whether you take a vacation or use the time to catch up on projects at home, you receive the free time you deserve while your loved one receives exceptional care and support in an environment that understands his/her needs and respects his/her dignity. During his/her stay with us, your loved one receives companionship with peers, stimulating activities and entertainment, a daily exercise program and delicious food.

With no minimum stay required, respite care at North Woods Village at Edison Lakes includes all of the services and amenities offered through “New Directions,” ^SM our signature memory care program. These include:

• Resident-centered life enrichment programming and activities
• A personalized care plan based on your loved one’s individual needs
• Assistance with activities of daily living, such as grooming, bathing, dressing, walking and eating
• Around-the-clock care with an LPN on site 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• Private suite and bath with a variety of features to enhance safety
• Three delicious, well-balanced meals a day, individualized to your loved one’s needs
• Snacks and refreshments available anytime
• Scheduled housekeeping, personal laundry and linen service with additional services as needed
• Access to all community features and amenities

The Advantages of Respite Care

Seeking support and maintaining your own health are essential to managing your responsibilities as a caregiver. Utilizing respite care before you become exhausted, isolated or overwhelmed can be invaluable and simply anticipating regularly scheduled relief can be an emotional lifesaver. In addition to needed downtime for relaxation, respite care gives you a chance for personal revitalization by spending time with friends and family, shopping, exercising and doing the things that provide you with personal pleasure and fulfillment in your life. Respite care also offers the comfort and peace of mind of knowing that your loved one is spending time with other caring individuals in a safe and loving place.

Respite Care Benefits Both of You!

You may believe that you should be able to “do it all,” but it is important to be realistic – for everyone’s sake. Remember, you’re only human. Seeking help does not mean you have failed. Conversely, it means you are responsible in your role. Respite care provides you with a needed physical and emotional break as well as a sense of refreshment and renewal that can keep you whole – and make you an even better caregiver for your loved one!

For more information on how North Woods Village can help you and your loved one cope with early state dementia, contact us today!