Why is respite care important?
Respite care is an important part of any care plan, especially if the care given is 24-hour support for an illness or health condition. Care can be intense for everyone involved, and respite care brings many benefits for both those providing care and those receiving it.
What is respite care?
Respite care is temporary care provided by carers who aren't part of the everyday care plan. Wolfeton Manor offers both daycare and residential stays as part of our all-important respite care service.
The aim of respite care is to give carers a break so they can take time for themselves while offering those being cared for new scenery and a chance to meet new people. Those with chronic illnesses or disabilities often benefit from a change in their routine now and then, and it prevents carer burnout, enabling them to sustain the level of care needed.
Below are some benefits both the caregiver and care receiver can experience.
Socialisation
Engaging in conversation with a variety of people is imperative to mental health and well-being, no matter what age. Respite care allows both the caregiver and care receiver to meet new people and open a dialogue with them. Not only will this allow both people to build a broader circle of support, but it can also keep views and opinions open as it presents the opportunity for wider discussion and perspectives.
For the caregiver, respite care allows them to catch up with friends and family while knowing their loved one is in safe hands and their needs are being met.
New experiences
Respite care breaks routine, giving the person receiving care a chance to experience new things. At our care home, the lifestyle of our residents is a priority. With this in mind, we have a range of activities that we encourage residents to join in with, even if they are just here for a day.
Participating in activities and new experiences enhances the quality of life, making respite care incredibly beneficial.
Health
The health of both those involved in care is a priority, but for the caregiver, it is often overlooked as they put the needs of the care receiver first.
Utilising respite care services at our Dorchester care home provides time for the caregiver to look after their mental and physical health. This could mean it allows them time to exercise, cook their favourite nutritious meal or get their hair done.
Short-term or long-term respite care gives the carer time for themselves, often preventing carer burnout, meaning the carer will be able to give 100% to their loved one, enhancing the quality of care provided and the quality of life for the care receiver.
Hobbies and interests
As a person goes into receiving or giving care, it is common for hobbies and interests to be lost. Respite care can reignite a passion for these hobbies, as it will provide time that can be spent doing these activities. This is important as hobbies and interests can form a big part of who we are. Therefore, by spending time doing things they love, the caregiver won't lose their identity.
For the loved one receiving care, respite care services will include activities that they can partake in, adapted to their conditions. It is a great way for them to find new hobbies within their capabilities and will often bring enjoyment and satisfaction into their lives.
Minimise stress
Respite care provides the essential breaks needed so that caregivers can get rest and relieve stress that they may be feeling. Breaks dedicate time for the caregiver to look after themselves, often giving them time to reach out to their support network and renew energy levels.
Promotes independence
For those receiving care, it can be easy to become very dependent on the person providing it. But respite care stops this from happening. Going somewhere new, surrounded by new people can foster a sense of independence and autonomy as they navigate getting to know these new people and participating in any activities that they are interested in.
Of course, at any care home, those needing care will receive the professional support they need, but our teams will also stand back when able to, enabling residents to be as independent as possible.
Reduces isolation
For both the caregiver and receiver, respite care reduces feelings of isolation and loneliness. For the care receiver, going to a care home for respite care will mean they meet new people who might be in similar situations and can share their experiences. Meanwhile, the caregiver is given the opportunity to meet with their friends and family and socialise.
Learn more about respite at Wolfeton Manor
Set in beautiful Dorchester, Wolfeton Manor is a great place for respite care.
Our staff and residents always welcome newcomers with a smile, and each respite care resident is treated with the same compassion and attention as our full-time residents.
Whether you are looking for a break for a few hours, days or weeks, we can take over your care duties. We always recommend that you visit our care home before booking any respite care so that you can experience what life is like at our care home firsthand.
Contact us today to learn more about our respite services or to book a visit. Call us on 01305 262340 or complete our contact form, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.