5 Reasons for Respite Care: Important Benefits for Caregivers

Providing care for a senior loved one allows caregivers to bond and build lasting memories.
While caring for a loved one is honorable and often rewarding, few people
realize the physical and emotional tolls caregivers endure. There are many reasons to ask for
help when it comes to respite care. Here are a few to consider:

Renew Your Energy

You can drain your energy very quickly if you do the same things over and over again and there
doesn’t seem to be an end in sight. You need to be able to calm your nerves, improve your
mood, and renew your spirit. Some days this can mean taking a walk and getting fresh air.
Other days, this means taking a day off or taking a weekend mini-vacation. There’s nothing
wrong with taking breaks and respite care can allow your loved one the care they need while
you are away.

Maintain Your Identity

When you become a loved one’s caregiver, your own identity can slip away. It’s important to
remember you are more than just your loved one’s caregiver. It’s essential to maintain your
sense of self and take care of your personal needs and desires. Respite care can help you be
you again instead of just your loved one’s caregiver. Go out for a meal with friends, get a
pedicure, and remember to enjoy yourself!

Give Yourself Space

Distancing yourself – even for a few hours – from your situation gives you the opportunity to “be off”  for a while, so you can relax and be comfortable. When you work with someone you love,
you need to be able to see and think clearly. Breaks can give you that time to clear your mind.

Stay Engaged

Caregivers suffer as much as their loved ones suffer from social isolation. Spending time with
your friends and family and maintaining healthy social ties is important.

Just Because

This is one of the top reasons family caregivers opt for respite care. They want to relax the day,
do their favorite hobbies, or do nothing at all. Family caregivers choose respite care because
they don’t want to explain to anyone why they need a break.

If you are the primary caregiver for a senior loved one in Northern Maryland respite care is
available when you need time away from your important caregiving duties. At ThriveUSA, our
respite caregivers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help your loved one to manage
everyday tasks in the comfort of home while you have the chance to take a much-needed break.
To schedule a free in-home consultation, call one of our professional Personal Care
Companions at (301) 882-4717 today.