Caregiving - Respite-Taking a Break

National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization

Respite provides caregivers a break from their daily responsibilities. Respite can cover a wide range of services based upon the unique needs of the caregiver.

Respite might mean:

• Medical or social adult day care for the loved one or friend
• A short-term stay in a nursing home or assisted living facility for the loved one or friend
• A home health aide or home health companion
• A private duty nurse

Respite for the caregiver might be:

• Giving the caregiver a short break for a doctor's appointment or to go shopping
• Allowing the caregiver the opportunity to nap, bathe, or otherwise rejuvenate
• A break to attend a church service or see a movie
• Taking a much needed vacation
• Pampering oneself with a hair appointment or manicure
• Scheduling elective surgery
• Simply visiting friends or other family members

However you choose to take a break, make sure you do it often enough to maintain a healthy balance between caregiving and your personal needs.