Spousal caregivers often feel so much stress since they also live with the person they are caring for, which doesn’t provide for any breaks physically or emotionally.

Spousal caregiving can often lead to significant changes in a marital relationship leaving the family caregiver feeling overwhelmed and stressed. This can be compounded if the caregiver is also taking over responsibilities that were once handled solely by their ailing spouse from cooking and doing laundry, to balancing the checkbook, and heading up the financial decisions.

A study of elderly spousal caregivers (aged 66-96) found that caregivers who experience caregiving-related stress have a 63% higher mortality rate than non-caregivers of the same age.

Respite care provides short term breaks that relieve stress, restore energy, and promote balance in your life. Arranging for respite provides the caregiver the opportunity to have someone look after their spouse allowing them to “recharge” their batteries mentally and physically.

What is Respite Care?

Respite, a break for caregivers and families, is a service in which temporary care is provided to children or adults with disabilities, or chronic or terminal illnesses. Respite can occur in out-of-home and in-home settings for any length of time, depending on the needs of the family and available resources.

Finding someone qualified to care for your loved one can be overwhelming. The care of a family member with multiple and severe physical disabilities is a 24-hour-a-day commitment. Most often respite care takes place in the families own home where professional care-givers provide an opportunity for parents to have some time to themselves–to shop, to visit the dentist or doctor, or to spend time with other children or a spouse. In addition to providing direct relief, respite has added benefits for families, including:

• Relaxation. Respite gives families peace of mind, helps them relax, and renews their humor and their energy;
• Enjoyment. Respite allows families to enjoy favorite pastimes and pursue new activities;
• Stability. Respite improves the family’s ability to cope with daily responsibilities and maintain stability during crisis;
• Preservation. Respite helps preserve the family unit and lessens the pressures that might lead to institutionalization, divorce, neglect, and child abuse;
• Involvement. Respite allows families to become involved in community activities and to feel less isolated;
• Time Off. Respite allows families to spend time together and alone; and
• Enrichment. Respite makes it possible for family members to establish individual identities and enrich their own growth and development.

Respite is a vital resource especially for a spouse caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s Disease or any other condition which requires constant care.

Source:  http://www.elderoptionsoftexas.com

Contact Pure Home Care Services at (586) 293-2457 today!  If you live in Warren or the surrounding area, we can help you care for your loved ones.