You Deserve a Break!
Dear Caregivers,
In these somewhat crazy times of oppressive heat, violence in the news, and overall uncertainty about the future, the word “respite” comes to my mind.
Originating from the Latin word that is also the root of the word “respect,” respite means to take a break, or get a temporary reprieve, from something that is a challenge.
Caregivers for a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s know exactly what I mean. While caregiving can be one of the most satisfying, soul-amplifying activities, it’s also a continual, day-to-day responsibility that can wear down the most hardy of us.
Here at Navigating Aging Needs, we take very seriously the motto that as a caregiver, you need to “take your oxygen first”. By that I mean you need to take care of yourself, as a priority, or risk losing the ability to take care of your loved one.
In the realm of Alzheimer’s care, “respite care” means getting temporary relief from your day-to-day routine. This allows you to get some down time and recharge, which can help prevent caregiver burnout and other health issues. Respite care comes in various forms:
IN HOME: For this kind of respite care, known as “private duty,” a professional caregiver such as a nurse comes to the home for a day, or night, to help out your loved one, and give you some time off.
ADULT DAY CENTERS: These are establishments that safely provide daily programs of care, activities, and social interaction for your loved one during the day
VOLUNTEER RESPITE CARE: These are organizations and community groups that have trained volunteers that can help you on a short-term basis.
RESIDENTIAL RESPITE CARE: These facilities are for temporary residence for your loved one, providing 24/7 care for several days or even weeks, in the event that you need an extended break.
Ask your NAN Navigator for advice on which service might be best for you and your loved one. And remember: as the origins of the word “respite” suggests, caregiving begins with respecting yourself, and that is the best way to ensure that you are able to care for your loved one.
Here is some more advice on getting a respite:
How To Do Relaxation Breathing:
If you are feeling anxious, the first step to take is to break the cycle of your body’s stress response. Relaxation Breathing is a powerful technique for doing that. Here’s how.
The Basics of Adult Day Centers:
Adult day centers offer supervised care and activities that are tailored to meet the needs of people living with Alzheimer's. Adult day services can help provide respite to caregivers, while at the same time ensuring that your loved one receives safe, compassionate, and attentive care. Here’s a guide to how to find the right fit for your loved one.
Private Duty and Companion Care:
“Private Duty Care” and “Companion Care” are services intended to help your loved one to safely get through day-to-day activities such as personal care, preparing meals, housecleaning, and offering companionship. These services can also offer a break for caregivers, who can use the time to be on their own. Here is a list of recommended local private duty and companion care companies that might be useful in your caregiving journey.
Caregiver Burnout: How to Cope:
Caregiving for someone suffering from Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most challenging jobs in the world, and it comes with a risk of what is known as “Caregiver Burnout.” With caregiver burnout, you are in a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that may also be coupled with a change in your attitude towards your caregiving role, from one of positive, caring, and rewarding to one of feeling negative, unconcerned, and resentful. Here’s how to avoid it.
Remember, if you can’t find the information you need on our website, you can always “Ask NAN” by clicking on this link.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“Self-care means giving yourself permission to pause.”
— Cecilia Tran
