Respite Care To Relieve Caregiver Stress

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By Janine Sanderstine


Let's face it, caregivers of the elderly are under a great deal of stress. The caregivers do their best to fill the needs of the person they're caring for, often on a 24/7 basis. It's important to recognize that taking a break from care giving can be a positive step for both the caregiver and their loved one. When a break is needed from caring for the senior in their life, such as the need for a vacation or a business trip, respite care may be the best solution.

Sometimes a short-term solution is desirable when a loved one is recovering from an sickness or surgery. Extra assistance is needed, but only for a short period of time.

This is the benefit of respite care. It's a short-term arrangement for care so that the caregiver can rest or take time off. The main objective is to allow the caregiver to rejuvenate themselves and relieve some of the stress.For caregivers that are taking care of a hospice patient, respite care comes from Medicare-approved facilities like a nursing home, a hospice inpatient facility or even a hospital. Medicare covers respite care for patients on hospice in the same manner as the hospice service is covered. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the person receiving respite care may be responsible for 5% of the Medicare-approved amount for respite care. For example, if Medicare pays $100 per day for inpatient respite care, you will pay $5 per day. Medicare covers up to five days for each time a person receives respite care. There is no limit to the number of times that a person can receive respite care. The amount that you will pay for respite care can change each year. Current coverage amounts can be determined by checking directly with Medicare.

What about respite for caregivers when hospice is not involved? There may be help with payment, even though Medicare won't pay for non-hospice respite care. Organizations in your area that serve seniors may be able to provide assistance. Some examples of organizations that might be able to help provide local current information are the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Elder Care Services, Social Services, and Senior Services in your area. In many cases, there is no funding available and private pay is the only option.At assisted living facilities, short-term residents are able to experience many of the benefits shared by other residents. A wide range of activities is available as well as nutritious meals and other amenities offered at the facility. A staff of well trained experienced caregivers is are available 24 hours a day to provide personal assistance with daily needs.

There are basically two types of respite care for the elderly: in home and out of home.

In-home respite care is a temporary arrangement where help can be provided in the person's home. The patient is not required to leave their home, which can be an added benefit of in-home care. Many patients find it easier to accept the new caregivers when they are in familiar surroundings. Many qualified caregivers specialize in home respite care.

Respite care for the elderly is also available at many care facilities. Board and care residences for the elderly, assisted living facilities, and even your local hospital may offer respite care. In some areas there are senior foster care homes that will offer respite services.

Respite care for the elderly is an invaluable source of assistance, benefiting both the caregiver and the patient.




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