Dementia Care Guide: Everything You Need To Know
This guide was written with the hope to give you clear answers, practical advice, and reassurance so you feel more confident in your next steps.
What Are Respite Care Services?
In times of need, caring for a loved one is a natural decision for many. That said, it’s not always easy. Caring for someone, no matter how much you love them, can be emotionally and physically demanding and, sometimes, it’s really important to turn that love inward and take breaks. Embracing time to recharge, carers can give themselves the downtime and self-care that they deserve, whilst continuing to provide the best care and support for the person they love.
Supporting our everyday superheroes, that’s where respite care services come in.
So, Exactly What Are Respite Care Services?
Respite care is the care given by specialist caregivers to temporarily relieve primary caregivers. A tailored service, it gives primary caregivers a much-needed chance to relax and reboot and focus on other things that they would like to – from getting the shopping done to simply sitting down with a book. An invaluable way of providing specialist back-up for those who need it most, it can be regularly scheduled to offer consistent breaks lasting a few hours, days, or weeks depending on what’s needed.
In the case of respite care for dementia patients, this dedicated service can help primary caregivers to lift the self-imposed weight of responsibility, whilst also offering those living with the condition to feel safe and secure in a welcoming environment that professionally caters to their needs. In essence, it’s a really beneficial way of making sure that everyone gets the support that they need and deserve.
How Does Respite Care Work?
If you’ve ever wondered what respite care services are and how they work, then it may be a relief to know that these dedicated services are generally very adaptable. When planned accordingly and carried out by professionals, respite care services can be arranged at chosen intervals to allow primary caregivers to tend to their own needs and recuperate. Afterall, it’s not uncommon for those caring for others to forget to look after themselves.
Depending on the level of support that’s required, respite care services work by providing a safe space in accredited environments such as day centres or care homes. It’s really important that you register with a fully licensed establishment to ensure the highest quality care. At Wisteria Care Home, our trained and experienced staff run daycare and respite services at each of our three CQC regulated care homes in Woolwell, Stoke, and Plymstock, and offer tailored services to help those living with dementia and their caregivers enjoy much-needed sanctuary.
Who Are Respite Care Services For?
Respite care services are designed for anybody in a position of primary care who needs some help and support. This could be a primary carer who would like to go on holiday, needs help managing care with work or responsibilities, or simply needs time to rest. There’s no ‘set’ process; however, if you find yourself wondering what are care services, then you may very well already be in a position where you could do with a helping hand.
In order to ensure the best care for everyone, the main focus of seeking respite services is to work with an accredited body who you trust. For those living with dementia, the world can sometimes feel like an overwhelming and confusing place, so it’s important to work with an institution who fully understands the situation of both the caregiver and the person they are caring for. This ensures stress levels are kept to a minimum for all involved and that everyone’s mental health and wellbeing can be fully championed and supported.
Types of Respite Care Services
There are a number of different respite care services available that cater to a range of conditions and needs. Types of respite care services typically include:
- Residential respite
- Emergency respite
- Daycare services
- In-home assistance
At Wisteria Care Home, we offer residential, daycare and respite care services in Plymouth at our three South West-based CQC care homes. Supported by a professional, experienced team of staff, we can work with primary caregivers to explain how our services work and advise the best next steps.
Benefits of Respite Care
The peace of mind and numerous benefits of respite care can’t be understated – both for those giving and receiving care. For those in a position of primary care, respite care services can help to:
- Reduce burnout and stress
- Encourage self-care and mindfulness
- Share responsibilities
- Foster a new support network
- Gain outside perspectives
- Spot medical needs
- Offer an outlet for questions and advice
- Boost energy and improve ability to offer care
For those living with dementia, the introduction of respite care services can help to:
- Enhance quality of support and care
- Identify additional needs
- Support a consistent routine
- Prevent social isolation
- Create a new community
- Improve existing relationships
- Implement fully tailored activities
- Reignite sense of self and confidence
Respite Care Services at Wisteria House
If you’ve been wondering what are respite care services and considering the next steps for yourself and the person you are caring for, we can fully support you in what comes next. With a highly experienced team of professionals, we fully understand the emotional complexities of seeking help and the concerns that can arise with securing additional support.
Offering a range of daycare and respite care services, at Wisteria Care Home we can offer both temporary and long-term support for those living with dementia. Focusing on building relationships and dedicated to the highest quality care, we always make sure the needs and dignity of our residents are at the forefront of everything we do and that we create an environment that is welcoming, supportive, and safe.
To find out more about our daycare and respite care services for those living with dementia, please do get in touch. We would be more than happy to help you and answer any questions you may have.
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