 | William M. (Bill) Ward
is CEO of Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America, Inc. Mr. Ward joined Presbyterian Manors in 1996 after serving as chairman of the board. Presbyterian Manors, a not-for-profit organization with a 54-year history in Kansas, operates 17 communities in Kansas and Missouri. Mr. Ward is a member of several organizations serving health care and retirement services, including the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging. Mr. Ward may be contacted at Presbyterian Manors' home office: (316) 685-1100 or (800) 336-8511. |
Senior Living
2001-12-01 14:55:00
What is respite care?
Question: What is respite care? Who provides it? Why is it different than any other type of care?
Answer: Respite care is short-term, temporary care provided so caregivers can take a break and take care of themselves. Whether caregivers are taking care of an elderly parent or severely disabled child, they need a break from the daily routine. Respite care offers this break, whether it's for a day, a weekend, or longer.Planned and crisis respite care is intended to reduce family stress, support family stability and minimize the need for out-of-home placements (especially in the case of individuals with disabilities). Respite care can be provided in-home, or the individual to be cared for may receive care in a health care center or group home. The nature and availability of services in a given city or area may vary. Respite care involves circumstances in which a caregiver who needs a break or has to devote attention to some situation which requires them to be away from the person for whom they are providing care. While all respite care is not necessarily licensed care, for someone who needs the support of a health care professional, a licensed provider is appropriate and desirable. It is best to plan ahead, not only for instances where you may be planning a trip that will require entrusting the care of your loved one to someone else, but also in order to be prepared in case an emergency situation arises which requires you call in help. A good first step is to talk with your local area agency on aging or disabilities to locate respite care providers. Providers may be licensed or volunteer organizations. Often, senior retirement communities and health care centers offer respite care.As with any care service, you will want to contact available respite care providers to find out more about how they train their staff/volunteers, how care is provided, and cost of care. It is advisable to know the qualifications and reputation of your chosen provider and to check references. You will want to feel comfortable with the organization and the people and accommodations they provide to care for your loved one. If care will be at the respite providers' site, visit to see what the physical accommodations are and to evaluate the overall atmosphere, cleanliness and environment. Most respite care providers will have information for you to fill out and will ask for a doctor's evaluation so they can plan appropriate respite care and anticipate your loved one's needs.To use licensed respite care, you will also need to set up an appointment for an assessment visit so the respite care provider is prepared to provide appropriate care should you access respite care either on a planned or emergency basis. If you have planned in advance for respite care, it can provide peace of mind in the event of an emergency, allowing you to concentrate on taking care of the situation at hand, knowing your loved one has the attention and care he/she needs.
