Nearly 53 million Americans provided unpaid care to an adult with health or functional needs in 2020, according to the latest data collected by the National Alliance for Caregiving.
If you count yourself among the one in five people in the U.S. who provide care to a friend or family member, you know how rewarding – and challenging – it can be. As a caregiver, you may not realize how important it is for you to take care of yourself so that you can provide reliable care for others.
Taking a break isn’t selfish; it’s vital. Caregiving can be a demanding and stressful responsibility, and no one should be expected to handle it without some help. Respite care is designed to do just that: provide caregivers like you a chance to take a temporary break from caregiving duties.
Respite care is intended to be a temporary solution, designed to help you fill the gaps when your own at-home care isn’t an option. Whether that’s due to work responsibilities, other family demands, or simply taking a little time for yourself, respite care gives you peace of mind that your loved one is well cared for. This allows you to confidently attend to those other responsibilities and return to caregiving when you’re able.
Here are just a few of the ways respite care can benefit both you and your loved one:
Your loved one enjoys a safe, caring, and uninterrupted routine
Respite care offers a period of freedom from caregiving duties while your loved one continues to receive the necessary care in a safe, caring, and professional environment. Many adults who require constant care thrive in a well-scheduled environment, one that would be disrupted by a vacation or family visit. As pleasant as those changes may seem, they can be very stressful for people in care.
You can attend to your own health and well-being
Just like the loved one you care for, caregivers like you also need support and attention to maintain your own health and well-being. Respite care for your loved one provides a short-term break to help relieve stress, renew energy, and restore a sense of balance to your life.
Respite care gives you the time and the space to step away from caregiving temporarily, so you can reconnect with friends and family, travel, exercise, and pursue social activities that give you joy and a sense of purpose. All of these things allow you to recharge and return to caregiving in your own time with renewed energy and patience.
Give yourself a break
Taking a break from caregiving responsibilities shouldn’t make you feel like a bad person; it makes you a better caregiver. Being realistic about your expectations for yourself – and seeking help when you need it – is the responsible thing to do. Respite care can provide you with a feeling of revitalization and refreshment that can keep you whole – physically and mentally – and enable you to be a better spouse, parent, caregiver, and person.
Whether you are interested in a short week-long break or a month or longer, Crimson Village’s qualified and skilled staff will make your loved one feel right at home. You can learn more about available amenities, floor plans, and medical support by exploring our site. Click here for a virtual tour, or contacting our team members by email at marketing@crimsonvillage.com or by phone at 205-632-6699 to discuss your specific needs.