What is Respite Care?

Respite care is temporary care for individuals who require ongoing support due to illness, disability, or other needs. It offers relief to the primary caregiver, who might be a family member or friend, when they need some time off

to rest and recharge, or attend to other commitments. The main goal of respite care is to give caregivers time to take care of their own well-being, and prevent burnout, while ensuring the individual receives safe care in their absence. By taking regular breaks and receiving support through respite care, primary caregivers can manage their caregiving responsibilities in a better way.

Respite care can take various forms, including in-home care, where a trained caregiver comes to the individual's home to provide assistance and support. Alternatively, the care recipient may stay in a specialised respite care facility, such as a nursing home or assisted living facility, for a short period. The duration of respite care can range from a few hours to a few days or more, depending on the needs and arrangements made by the caregiver.