While many American families are caring for their aging loved ones, doing so can be exhausting at times. To prevent relationship strain, loved ones that aren’t ready for assisted living can try a respite stay in North Carolina instead.
How Does Respite Care Work?
Respite care is designed to give primary caregivers a brief break from their duties, while also giving their loved ones an opportunity to sample assisted living. During their short stays visitors will gain access to the same amenities and conveniences as full time residents, which includes:
- Restaurant level dining from morning to evening
- A private residence furnished with a walk in shower, living room and kitchenette
- Assistance with daily tasks like medication management
- Daily programs like spas, shopping, live music, bowling or tennis
Additional Advantages of Respite Care
Caregivers can utilize respite care in situations where they’ve become exhausted, stressed or have major life commitments that would inhibit their ability to adequately care for their loved ones. Examples of this would be a scenario where the caregiver’s job requires them to relocate to another city, state or country for a temporary assignment, or where they have major academic commitments such as finishing a college degree where they need full concentration.
Additionally, respite care gives caretakers time to manage their personal lives and to spend time with other family members, while also handling key errands or going to a doctor to deal with any health issues they have. It also offers the opportunity to take a much needed vacation. Respite care benefits care receivers because they can try out the community to see if they like it before relocating there full time.
How to Cover the Cost of Respite Care
While respite care provides a host of advantages, the main concern of many families is cost. A typical stay in a retirement community can cost an average of four figures a month. However, while this may seem steep, bear in mind that at home caregiving has its costs as well. Research shows that roughly fifty percent of at home caregivers are forced to cut their leisure spending, especially when it comes to vacations, going out to eat, and other things. In a typical year they might spend up to twenty percent of their income to care for their loved ones.
When you look at it this way, respite care can actually be more affordable. And the earlier you plan the transition, the easier the process will be. You’ll also have time to explore the many payment options that are available. While respite care is usually not covered by private insurance, you can take advantage of things such as sliding scale charges, government programs or scholarships.
Loved ones that are getting veterans benefits could be eligible for programs as well. If they have Alzheimer’s, there are association chapters in some cities that even provide respite scholarships. While caring for your loved one is admirable, placing them in a community where they will be properly tended to allows you to live your own life, which you deserve.
